Academic Planning Guide 2016

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ACADEMIC PLANNING
GUIDE FOR
NEW STUDENTS
20162017
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
WELCOME FROM THE INTERIM

DEAN OF ADVISING
1. JAMES H. AND CHRISTINE

TURK BERICK CENTER FOR
STUDENT ADVISING
THE ADVISING PARTNERSHIP
2. COLUMBIA COLLEGE 3
3. T
HE FU FOUNDATION
SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING
AND APPLIED SCIENCE 17
4. TRANSFER AND
COMBINED PLAN 29
The Basics
30
The Basics
The Basics
The Core Curriculum
Majors and Concentrations
First-Year/Sophomore Technical
Requirements 18
James H. and Christine Turk Berick

Center for Student Advising
30
Registration Advice
Nontechnical Requirements
20
Transfer Credit Evaluations
30
Placement 7
Majors and Minors
21
Course Approval
31
Advanced Standing
Registration Advice
21
Study Abroad
22
Columbia College: The Core

Curriculum 31
Study Abroad
18
Fellowships 12
Fellowships 22
SEAS: Selecting Your Classes
33
Preparation for Future

Professional Study
Advanced Standing
22
Combined Plan Students
36
12
Frequently Asked Questions
12
Preparation for Future

Professional Study
24
Combined Plan
Transfer Credit Evaluation
36
Frequently Asked Questions
24
Academic Resources and

Guides for Students
25
Academic Resources and

Guides for Students
13
Worksheet 15
Worksheet 27
5. ACADEMIC INTEGRITY 38
6. CAMPUS RESOURCES 39
7. APPENDICES 44

Foreign Language Requirement 44
Faculty Contacts for

Science Majors
46
46
Academic Calendar
Directory
Planning Guide 20162017
47
WELCOME
Dear Class of 2020,
Welcome to Columbia! In the course of the next four years, you will explore academic disciplines, hone your
abilities as a critical thinker, expand your cultural interests, and discover new passions; you will engage in discussion and debate with the worlds brightest minds, consider perspectives very different from your own, and be
challenged to discover, grow, and change, both personally and intellectually.
We at the James H. and Christine Turk Berick Center for Student Advising (CSA) are here to help you navigate
your time at Columbia. Throughout your four years, we will serve as your primary contacts for academic advising, and are available to offer advice, answer questions, help solve problems, connect you with resources, and
brainstorm about courses of study, life plans, or anything else that may be on your mind. More immediately,
we want to help you get ready for your first semester at college. To this end, we provide this Academic Planning
Guide for New Students, with information on planning your schedule, required and elective courses, campus
resources, and an overview of the requirements for your degree.
In mid-July you will receive an email introducing you to your adviser, who will be availablein person or by
phone or emailto answer any questions you may have as the academic year approaches. We ask that you
schedule an appointment with your adviser during the New Student Orientation Program (NSOP) in late
August to discuss your personal and academic goals and refine your plans for the Fall 2016 semester. Before that,
we strongly urge you to look through this guide and write down ideas for your first-semester schedule, potential
majors, or any questions you may have on the included worksheet as preparation for your first conversation with
your adviser.
In short, we are here for you. We look forward to meeting you and helping you make the most of your time here
at Columbia.
Sincerely,
Andrew Plaa, PhD

Interim Dean of Advising
Berick Center for Student Advising
Introduction to Advising
James H. and Christine Turk Berick Center for Student Advising
JAMES H. AND CHRISTINE TURK BERICK

CENTER FOR STUDENT ADVISING
The James H. and Christine Turk Berick Center for Student
Advising guides and supports students at Columbia College and
The Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science as
they navigate their educations and lives at Columbia University.
Advisers help students recognize and pursue their passions;
challenge students to set realistic academic and life goals to
ensure personal success; and empower students to think and act
creatively and independently.
You will have an adviser from the CSA throughout your time at
Columbia. You will receive the name and contact information of
your assigned adviser in mid-July. You will have an opportunity to
meet your adviser during the New Student Orientation Program,
but you are welcome to contact your adviser with any questions you
may have this summer.
Advisers have diverse educational and professional backgrounds that
complement the varied interests, goals, and backgrounds of our
student population. The CSA works closely with offices across the
Columbia campus to create a seamless advising experience for students
as they grow intellectually, socially, and professionally at Columbia.
Your adviser is one of a community of advising resources available
to you at Columbia. Our faculty are another vital source of advice.
They are available to discuss research opportunities, to elucidate the
finer points of course material and major requirements, and to guide
you through your declared field of study.
Your adviser is your primary point of contact for a variety of issues
and questions, including the following:
General academic questions, concerns, or difficulties
Registration questions and problems
Connecting with faculty
Changes in academic program, in consultation with faculty advisers
Receiving transfer, AP/IB/GCE, or summer course credit
P
remed and prelaw requirements and other academic
opportunities
Understanding University policies and petitioning for exceptions to academic policy
Planning to study abroad
Progress toward and completion of requirements for the degree
Personal problems and concerns
Leaves of absence
Referrals to other resources on campus
Future life plans
THE ADVISING PARTNERSHIP

Productive advising is built on a true partnership in which the
student and the adviser work together. The spirit of an ideal advising
partnership is mutual engagement, responsiveness, and dedication.
Regular advising conversations, the fundamental building blocks of
the partnership, enable an adviser to serve as a resource of knowledge
and a source of referralsso that students may plan and prepare, in
the broadest sense, throughout their time at Columbia.
TO MAKE THIS PARTNERSHIP A SUCCESS:
Students should
Actively engage in the advising relationship
Respond to adviser outreach and be forthcoming about
perceived obstacles to success
Proactively research and plan ways to reach academic goals and
be open to sharing these goals with their advisers
Be open to researching the answers to questions with advisers in
order to learn ways in which to find information on their own
Act upon referrals to other sources of information and advice
Let advisers know when they have not been able to find needed
information and advice
Advisers should
Be knowledgeable, responsive, and supportive
Reach out to advisees, especially when an advisee seems to
be struggling
Inquire about students short- and long-term goals and ask
students to consider study abroad, fellowships, scholarships,
internships, research opportunities, etc.
Research the answers to questions with students as a way
to show students how and where to find information on
their own
Refer students to other sources of advice and information and
connect advisees with appropriate faculty members and departments
Follow up with students on important matters in a timely way
COLUMBIA
COLLEGE
The Basics
Columbia College
THE BASICS
To earn the Bachelor of Arts degree from Columbia College,
you must:
complete the Columbia College Core Curriculum
satisfy the specific requirements for a major or
concentration
earn 124 credits
You must register for 12 or more credits per semester. You are
expected to complete all requirements within eight semesters
of study. First-year students generally register for 1516 points
their first semester.
THE CORE CURRICULUM

Since 1919, the Core Curriculum has provided students with
wide-ranging perspectives on significant ideas and achievements in literature, philosophy, history, music, art, and science.
The classes that comprise the Core engage social, political, and
philosophical ideas that have resonated across millennia and
continue to challenge us today. The Core hones the skills and
habits of analysis, argument, and respect for ideas, nuances, and
differences.
In your first year, you will be required to complete Masterpieces
of Western Literature and Philosophy, University Writing, and
Frontiers of Science. Students complete Introduction to Contemporary Civilization in the West in their second year. You should
aim to complete Masterpieces of Western Art and Masterpieces
of Western Music by the end of your third year. Plan the rest of
your program according to your own academic goals: the College envisions that the Core will arc across your years of study,
introducing you to new disciplines and paralleling or converging
with your major.
The complete Core requirements are listed below, along with
brief descriptions of each course. For a more in-depth look,
please visit the Core website at college.columbia.edu/core.
Science (SCNC 1000: Frontiers of Science plus two

one-semester courses from an approved course list)
Introduction to Contemporary Civilization in the West
(COCI 1101-1102) (two semesters)
Masterpieces of Western Art (HUMA 1121)
(one semester)
Masterpieces of Western Music (HUMA 1123)
(one semester)
Global Core (two one-semester courses from an
approved course list)
Physical education (two one-semester courses,
plus swim test)
LITERATURE HUMANITIES

What is required?
HUMA 1001-1002:
Masterpieces of Western
Literature and Philosophy
When? Fall and spring semester of the
first year.
Can I test out? No.
Special notes: All first-year students must be

prepared to discuss the first twelve
books of The Iliad at the introductory lecture, which meets during the
week of New Student Orientation.

Each member of the Class of 2020
will be presented with a copy of
The Iliad, a gift from The Columbia
College Alumni Association, when
they arrive on campus in August.
We suggest students prepare for
the first day of class by reading
either an electronic version of The
Iliad or a copy borrowed from the
local library.
The edition used in Literature Humanities classes is the Lattimore
(2011) translation.
The Core:
Masterpieces of Western Literature and Philosophy
(HUMA C1001-C1002) (two semesters)
University Writing (ENGL C1010)
Foreign language (four semesters or the equivalent)
Students gather in small seminars, twice a week, for literary analysis and discussion of works by Homer, Herodotus,
Thucydides, Plato, Virgil, Augustine, Dante, Montaigne,
Shakespeare, Austen, Dostoyevsky, Woolf, and others. Lit
Hum, as it is popularly known, offers you the opportunity
Columbia College
UNIVERSIT Y WRITING

What is required? ENGL 1010: University Writing

When? This course must be taken in the
first year. Half of the first-year class
will take it in the fall, the other half
in the spring.
You may choose to acquire a new language or continue to study

a language with which you are familiar. If you wish to continue
learning a language, you must take a placement exam offered by
the relevant foreign language department in order to determine
the appropriate course level for you at Columbia. Departmental
placement exams in many languages will be given during New
Student Orientation. Students who can place themselves in an
appropriate level based on SAT II scores do not have to take a
Columbia placement test. All language instruction courses must
be taken for a letter grade. Students who wish to test out of the
language requirement with a language not taught at Columbia
should contact the director of the Language Resource Center:
lrc.columbia.edu.
The Core Curriculum
to consider particular conceptions of what it means to be

human and the place of such conceptions in the development
of critical thought. One of the central aims of Lit Hum is to
help you develop and construct your own independent and
cogent critical arguments, both in class discussions and in
your written work.
Can I test out? No.
SCIENCE
University Writing is designed to help undergraduates develop the

reading and writing skills they need to participate fully in the intellectual life of the University. The course gives special attention
to close reading, rhetorical analysis, research, collaboration, and
substantive revision. Refining their ideas and their prose through
multiple drafts of their essays, students learn that writing is a skill
that can be developed through practice.
All first-year students must complete University Writing during
the first year. Credit from Advanced Placement exams in English
does not exempt students from this requirement.
FOREIGN LANGUAGE

What is required? Proficiency at the intermediate

level of a foreign language, typically Intermediate Level II
When? It is recommended that you start in
the first year.
Can I test out? Yes. Exemption or placement level

can be determined by AP scores,
SAT II scores, or departmental
placement tests. See Appendix A.
Special notes: See Appendix A for more information on satisfying the language
requirement.
What is required? The science Core course, SCNC

1000: Frontiers of Science, plus
two one-semester courses from an
approved course list
When? F
rontiers of Science in the first
year. Additional courses at any
time.
Can I test out? No.
Special notes: Students may not use Barnard

College courses to fulfill the science requirement unless otherwise
noted. A list of courses approved
for the science requirement is here:
bulletin.columbia.edu/columbiacollege/core-curriculum/sciencerequirement
The science requirement has two components, Frontiers of

Science and two additional courses of your choosing. Frontiers of
Science will introduce you to the most exciting developments in
contemporary science while teaching you the value of scientific
habits of mind, including the reasoning skills fundamental
to the scientists work and essential to the life of an informed
citizen. The two additional semesters in specific disciplines will
allow you to study a natural science in greater depth. You can
take these courses in the same department or in different
departments. However, at least one course must be taken in one
of the following departments: Astronomy; Biological Sciences;
Chemistry; Earth and Environmental Sciences; Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology; Physics; or Psychology. The other
can be a Mathematics, Statistics, or Computer Science course.
Columbia College
The Core Curriculum
Columbia College
CONTEMPORARY CIVILIZATION

What is required?
COCI 1101-1102: Introduction to
Contemporary Civilization in the
West, I and II
When? This two-semester sequence is usually taken in the sophomore year.
ART HUMANITIES

What is required?
HUMA 1121: Masterpieces of
Western Art
When? By the end of your junior year.

Can I test out? No.
Students convene in small seminars for analysis and discussion

of selected works of painting, sculpture, and architecture. Art
Hum students will also visit museums and art galleries as they
work to develop a foundation in visual literacy. Topics include
the Parthenon, Amiens Cathedral, Raphael, Michelangelo,
Rembrandt, Bernini, Goya, Monet, Picasso, Pollock, and
Frank Lloyd Wright.
If you are interested in majoring in art history, architecture,
or visual arts, you should take Art Hum as soon as
possible.
What is required?
Western Music
When? By the end of your junior year.
Can I test out? No.
Students meet in small seminars, twice a week, for intensive

study and discussion of important works of philosophy and
political theory by Plato, Aristotle, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke,
Rousseau, Kant, Smith, Marx, Darwin, DuBois, Nietzsche,
Freud, and others. In CC you will consider, among other issues,
the kinds of communitiespolitical, social, and moralthat
we construct for ourselves and how those communities might be
defined. Like Lit Hum, CC focuses on developing your critical
skills through rigorous class discussions and written assignments.
First-year students are not permitted to take CC.
MUSIC HUMANITIES
Can I test out? Yes. Exemption from Music Hum may

be obtained by passing an exemption exam. The exemption exam is
usually offered on the first Friday of
the fall semester and may be taken
only once, at the beginning of a students first semester at Columbia.
Students gather in small seminars for analysis and discussion of

representative musical works from the Middle Ages to the present.
Students also attend live music events both in and out of the classroom.
Works studied include those by Josquin des Prez, Monteverdi,
Bach, Handel, Mozart, Haydn, Beethoven, Verdi, Wagner,
Schoenberg, Stravinsky, Louis Armstrong, and Duke Ellington.
GLOBAL CORE

What is required? Two courses

When? Recommended in sophomore and
junior years.
Can I test out? No.
Special notes: The Global Core list of approved

courses is here: bulletin.columbia.
edu/columbia-college/core-curriculum/
global-core-requirement
The Global Core requirement consists of courses that examine

areas that are not the primary focus of Literature Humanities
and Contemporary Civilization, and that, like other Core
courses, are broadly introductory, interdisciplinary, and
temporally or spatially expansive.
Global Core courses fall into two categories. One group focuses
on a specific culture or civilization, tracing its appearance and/or
existence across a significant span of time and sometimes across
more than one present-day country or region. The other group
addresses several world settings or cultures comparatively (and
may include Europe and the West), in terms of a common theme,
a set of analytical questions, or interactions between different
world regions. Courses in the Global Core are organized around a
set of primary texts or artifacts, which may range from texts of
literate traditions to media (e.g., film), ritual performances, or oral
sources, produced in the regions of the world in question.
Columbia College
What is required? Two courses and a swim test
When? Before graduation.
Can I test out? No.
Special notes: Students unable to complete the

swim requirement due to physical
restrictions should obtain a waiver
from Columbia Health before
contacting the Physical Education
Department.
The physical education component of the Core emphasizes the

importance of balancing mind and body. The department offers
a variety of activities in the areas of aquatics, fitness, martial arts,
team sports, and outdoor education.
Students who participate in an intercollegiate sport can receive
physical education credit by registering for the appropriate team
section of PHED 1005: Intercollegiate Athletics.
MAJORS AND CONCENTRATIONS

All students must complete at least one major or concentration to fulfill the degree requirements; students may select a
second major, concentration, special concentration, and/or a
special program in addition to the first selection. Selecting only
a special concentration or special program will not fulfill the
requirements for the Bachelor of Arts degree.
Double Majors/Concentrations: All students attempting to complete double majors, double concentrations, or a combination of
a major and a concentration should keep in mind that they must
complete separate sets of required and related courses for each
field. A single course may not count for both programs.
Premedical Students: You must complete a regular concentration or major while fulfilling the premedical curriculum.
information on the requirements for a particular major,

please consult the Bulletin online (bulletin.columbia.edu/columbia-college). Some programs do require an early start, and
this may impact course selection in your first year.
Placement
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
REGISTRATION ADVICE
You will be preregistered for Literature Humanities and either
University Writing or Frontiers of Science for the Fall 2016
semester. You are responsible for choosing the rest of your classes
and building your schedule around those Core classes. Start by
browsing available courses in the online Bulletin (bulletin.columbia.edu/columbia-college) or Directory of Classes (columbia.edu/
cu/bulletin/uwb). Create a few sample schedules with alternate
electives. For each course, write down the course title, section
number, credits, and call number, and check to see if the class
has an accompanying recitation or discussion section.
You will register online beginning on the Friday of New Student
Orientation. You should have already received a mailing with an
assigned UNI (Columbia login and email address) and password.
You will use them to create an email account and to log into
Student Services Online (SSOL), at ssol.columbia.edu. To see when
and where your preregistered classes meet, click on Schedule. Your
registration appointment times are listed under Reg Appts.
Your schedule may not be complete at the end of the first
registration appointment times. You will have the opportunity
to finalize your schedule during the first weeks of classes, when
there is a lot of movement in enrollment.
PLACEMENT
If you believe that you can demonstrate proficiency beyond the
introductory level in chemistry, physics, or a foreign language,
and wish to take an advanced class in these subjects, you must
take a placement test during Orientation. Read below for advice
on course selection.
LANGUAGES
Students who are undecided should talk to their advising dean

about choosing classes that will help them explore potential
majors. Each department and academic program has a Director
of Undergraduate Studies, a faculty member who can answer your
questions about requirements for the major or concentration,
guide your choices about placement level, discuss opportunities to
study abroad, and assist you in planning your program.
If you are interested in continuing with a language you have

already studied, you may need to take a placement test during
Orientation. Some language departments, including Chinese,
French, Spanish, German, Italian, Hebrew, and Latin, can
place students in the correct course level based on SAT II or AP
scores. Please see Appendix A for more information.
Columbia College students declare their major and/or

concentration during the spring of sophomore year. For more
Note: If you are beginning a new language, you may register for an
Elementary Level I (1101) section without taking a placement test.
Columbia College
Placement
Columbia College
CALCULUS
CHEMISTRY
Suggested math guidelines for Columbia College students are as

follows:
All students wishing to place into a higher level of chemistry

than 1403-1404 in the fall must attend an information
session and take a placement exam given during Orientation.
The chemistry class you take will be determined by the results of
that placement exam. There are three different first-year tracks. In
Track 1, students take CHEM 1403-1404, a one-year course in
general chemistry, with CHEM 1500, a one-term laboratory
course. Calculus I or the equivalent is a corequisite.
Calculus I: Covers primarily differential calculus of functions of

one variable with geometric applications and the Fundamental
Theorem of Calculus. Take Calculus I if you:
have not taken calculus in high school, or
have less than a full year of high school calculus, or
have a full year of calculus but have a score of less than 4 on
an AP exam.
Calculus II: Covers special functions, integration techniques,
more geometric applications of integration, and infinite series,
including Taylor series. Take Calculus II if you:
received a 4 or 5 on the AB exam, or
received a 4 on the BC exam, or
received a 6 on the IB HL calculus exam, or
received a B on the A-level GCE Further Maths exam, or
didnt take an AP exam but received a grade of A in a full-year
high school calculus course.
Calculus III: Starts with vector algebra in 3-space and complex
numbers (with application to certain ordinary differential equations), and covers vector differential calculus in several variables,
including Lagrange multipliers. Take Calculus III if you:
received a score of 5 on the BC exam,
received a 7 on the IB HL calculus exam, or
received an A on the A-level GCE Further Maths exam
Calculus IV: Covers multiple integrals, line and surface integrals,
and vector integral calculus of functions of two and three variables, including the theorems of Green, Gauss, and Stokes. The
end of the course includes an introduction to either the theory
of functions of a complex variable or Fourier series. While many
students have had some exposure to multivariable calculus, firstyear students are strongly advised not to begin with Calculus IV,
which covers quite deep material at a fast pace.
Honors Mathematics A and B are for those who have a strong
interest in pure mathematics. The emphasis is on precise
definitions and statements of theorems and proofs of theorems.
Prospective majors in mathematics and physics should consider
this track. These two courses cover linear algebra as well as the
material of Calculus III and IV from a theoretical point of view.
In Track 2, students take CHEM 1604, a one-term intensive

course in general chemistry. Calculus II or the equivalent is a
corequisite. The accompanying lab can be either CHEM 1500 or
CHEM 1507, depending on placement.
In Track 3, students take CHEM 2045-2046, a one-year
intensive course in organic chemistry. All students in Track 3
take CHEM 1507, a one-term laboratory course.
Note: Students who are considering the premedical curriculum
should take chemistry and the appropriate lab in their first year.
PHYSICS
If you have a strong background in physics, you may wish to take

PHYS 2801: Accelerated Physics I. In order to place into this advanced
course, you must either take a placement test during Orientation or
have scored a 4 or 5 on both the AP Physics and AP Calculus BC tests.
All students interested in taking this course must attend the
information session offered during Orientation.
THEATRE
Auditions are required for each semesters acting classes and

productions. Sign-up sheets for audition sessions are posted in
the lobby of the Minor Latham Playhouse on the first floor of
Milbank Hall at Barnard College. First-year auditions will take
place during the first week of the term. Students auditioning
for courses or productions that require singing should prepare
a two-minute monologue as well as a standard chorus, or
approximately 16 bars, to be sung a cappella. Otherwise, students should prepare a two-minute monologue only.
Please see theatre.barnard.edu for additional information.
MUSIC PERFORMANCE
For information about music lessons, university orchestra,

chamber ensembles, jazz ensembles, Collegium Musicum, Bach
10
Columbia College
ADVANCED STANDING
The College grants up to 16 credits earned from Advanced
Placement (AP), General Certificate of Education Advanced
Level Examinations (A levels), the International Baccalaureate Examination (IB), and other national systems. A complete
description of policies, credits, and/or exemptions can be
found in the Columbia College Bulletin: bulletin.columbia.edu/
columbia-college. Please note that students are governed by the
academic standing policies that are in place during their first
year at Columbia.
The table on pages 1011 generally sets forth ways in which
Columbia College students can obtain credit based on AP
scores. This chart is designed to be a guide only. Students
must consult with their advising dean to discuss what credit
they may be eligible for and ways to use any applicable credits
in the registration process. Columbia College students may
accrue a maximum of 16 points toward graduation through
AP scores. The point equivalents are entirely the prerogative
of the faculty and are determined by the relevant academic
department. Students should not rely exclusively on this chart
without further consultation. Moreover, this chart is subject
to change based on the academic discretion of the faculty of
Columbia University.
Students who wish to receive advanced placement credit may
not register for courses at Columbia that cover similar or more
basic material than the work already completed; nor may a
student receive credit for two exams that cover the same material
(for example, Calculus AP and Mathematics A Level). In some
cases, a student must complete a particular course before credit
will be awarded. In general, advanced standing credit is awarded
prior to the sophomore year. An official score report is required
for credit to be evaluated.
Advanced standing may not be used for exemption from any of
the Core Curriculum courses, with the exception of AP scores
that may satisfy the language requirement.
those scores. For some students, appropriate placement may

mean forfeiting advanced credit to achieve stronger preparation
in a subject area.
You will not be granted credit for courses taken at other colleges
prior to your graduation from secondary school. Entering students may receive up to 6 points of credit toward the Columbia
degree for college courses taken after graduation from secondary
school and prior to enrollment at Columbia College. You will be
eligible for credit only in subjects that are taught at Columbia;
you should not take courses that duplicate those in the Core
Curriculum. You must earn a minimum grade of C in order to
receive credit. If you would like to exercise this option, please
contact the CSA before enrolling.
Study Abroad
Society, Marching Band, Wind Ensemble, Klezmer Band, and

more, please visit the website at music.columbia.edu/mpp or
stop by the office in 618 Dodge Hall during NSOP. Auditions
are required for music lessons as well as music performance
groups, and will be held during the first week of classes.
Official transcripts for this work, along with catalog descriptions

and a copy of the syllabus for each course, should be submitted
to the James H. and Christine Turk Berick Center for Student
Advising for review. There is no guarantee of credit, which will be
awarded only upon approval by the CSA.
If you plan to take summer classes through Columbias Summer
Session, you must obtain approval from the CSA prior to enrollment. Please be aware that students who have not yet matriculated in the University are not allowed to live on campus, so you
will need to explore alternative housing options.
Grades for summer school classes taken prior to matriculation
will not be calculated into the Columbia GPA and the classes
might not count toward your eventual major, even if the summer classes are taken at Columbia.
STUDY ABROAD
ogp.columbia.edu
The Office of Global Programs and Fellowships helps students
take part in intellectually rigorous international educational experiences that enhance and complement their Columbia education as well as their personal, academic, and professional growth.
It is never too early to start preparing to study abroad. Students
from every major should explore the possibilities that international education has to offer. Visit the Academic Resources Fair
during Orientation, the annual Study Abroad Fair, and the office
in 606 Kent for personalized advising.
Appropriate placement should not depend simply upon test

scores and the credit you hope to receive upon evaluation of
Columbia College
11
Advanced Placement
Columbia College
ADVANCED PLACEMENT CREDIT CHART

In order to receive AP credit, students must send official score reports to Columbia. The CEEB code is 2116.
SUBJECT SCORE CREDIT
Biology
3 The department grants 3 credits for a score of 5 on the AP Biology exam. Placement
is determined by the department. Students with a 5 on the AP are encouraged to take
BIOL 2005 and BIOL 2006 but are not required to do so. For details, see
columbia.edu/cu/biology/ug/faqs.html
Chemistry
4 or 5
3 or 6 The department grants AP credit for a score of 4 or 5. The amount of credit granted is
based on the results of the department placement exam and completion of the requisite
course. Students who are placed into CHEM 1604 are granted 3 points of credit; students who are placed into CHEM 2045-2046 are granted 6 points of credit. In either
case, credit is granted only upon completion of the course with a grade of C or better.
Students must complete a department placement exam prior to registering for either of
these courses.
Computer
4 or 5
3 The department grants 3 points for a score of 4 or 5 on the AP Computer Science
Science A A exam, along with exemption from COMS 1004.
Economics
5 on one
4
Tests must be taken in both microeconomics and macroeconomics, with a score of
(Micro and
and 4 or 5 5 on one test and at least a 4 on the other. Provided that this is achieved, the deMacro)
on the other
partment grants 4 credits for a score of 4 and 5 on the AP Economics exam along

with exemption from ECON 1105.
English
5
3
(Language and
Composition and/
or Literature and
Composition)
The department grants 3 credits for a score of 5 on the AP Language and

Composition exam, but the student is not entitled to any exceptions. The department
grants 3 credits for a score of 5 on the AP Literature and Composition exam, but the
student is not entitled to any exceptions.
French
5
3
The department grants 3 credits for a score of 5 on the AP French Language exam,
(Language and/
which satisfies the foreign language requirement. Credit is awarded upon successful
or Literature)
completion of a 3000-level (or higher) course with a grade of B or higher. This

course must be for at least 3 points of credit and be taught in French. Courses

taught in English may not be used for language AP credit. The department grants

4
0 0 credits for a score of 4 on the AP French Language exam, but the foreign language
requirement is satisfied. The department grants 3 credits for a score of 5 on the AP
French Literature exam, which satisfies the foreign language requirement. Credit is
awarded upon successful completion of a 3000-level (or higher) course with a grade of
B or higher. This course must be for at least 3 points of credit and be taught in French.
Courses taught in English may not be used for language AP credit. The department
grants 0 credits for a score of 4 on the AP French Literature exam, but the foreign
language requirement is satisfied.
German
5
3

4
0

The department grants 3 credits for a score of 5 on the AP German Language

exam, which satisfies the foreign language requirement. Credit is awarded
upon successful completion of a 3000-level (or higher) course with a grade of B
or higher. This course must be for at least 3 points of credit and be taught in
German. Courses taught in English may not be used for language AP credit. The
department grants 0 credits for a score of 4 on the AP German Language exam, but the
foreign language requirement is satisfied.
Government and 4 or 5
3
The department grants 3 credits for a score of 4 or 5 on the U.S. Government and
Politics (U.S.
Politics AP exam upon completion of a 3000-level (or higher) course in the American
and/or Comparative) Politics subfield with a grade of C or higher. The department grants 3 credits for a score
of 4 or 5 on the Comparative Government and Politics AP exam upon completion of
a 3000-level (or higher) course in the Comparative Politics subfield with a grade of C
or higher. Students may be given an exemption, based on AP scores, from only ONE
introductory political science course.
12
Columbia College
History
5
3
The department grants 3 credits for a score of 5 on the AP European History exam, but
(European and/
the student is not entitled to any exemptions, and these credits will not count toward a
or U.S.)
history major. The department grants 3 credits for a score of 5 on the AP United States

History exam, but the student is not entitled to any exemptions, and these credits will not

count toward a history major.

Italian
5
3
The department grants 3 credits for a score of 5 on the AP Italian Language exam,


completion of a 3000-level (or higher) course with a grade of B or higher. This course

must be for at least 3 points of credit and be taught in Italian. Courses taught in Eng-

lish may not be used for language AP credit. The department grants 0 credits for a score
4 0
of 4 on the AP Italian Language exam, but the foreign language requirement is satisfied.
Advanced Placement
SUBJECT SCORE CREDIT
Latin
5 3
A score of 5 on the AP Latin exam satisfies the foreign language requirement. In addi-

tion, 3 points of credit will be awarded upon successful completion (with a grade of B

or higher) of a Latin class at the 3000-level or higher.

Mathematics
4 or 5
3
The department grants 3 credits for a score of 4 or 5 on the AP Calculus AB exam.
AB
The amount of credit is reduced to 0 if the student takes MATH 1101.
Mathematics 5
6
The department grants 6 credits for a score of 5 on the AP Calculus BC exam. The
BC
amount of credit is reduced to 0 if the student takes MATH 1101 or to 3 if the student
takes MATH 1102.
4 3
The department grants 3 credits for a score of 4 on the AP Calculus BC exam. The

amount of credit is reduced to 0 if the student takes MATH 1101.

Physics
4 or 5
Up to 6 Students may earn a maximum of 6 credits in physics. The department grants 6 credits
for a score of 4 or 5 on the AP Physics B exam, but the student is not entitled to any
exemptions. The amount of credit is reduced to 3 if the student takes a 1000-level
physics course. The department grants 3 credits for a score of 4 or 5 on the AP Physics
C/MECH exam, but the student is not entitled to any exemptions. The amount of
credit is reduced to 0 if the student takes PHYS 1001, 1002, 1201, 1401, or 1601. The
department grants 3 credits for a score of 4 or 5 on the AP Physics C/E&M exam, but
the student is not entitled to any exemptions. The amount of credit is reduced to 0 if
the student takes PHYS 1001, 1002, 1202, 1402, or 1602.
Spanish
5
3
The department grants 3 credits for a score of 5 on the AP Spanish Language exam,
(Language and/
or Literature)
completion of a 3300-level (or higher) course with a grade of B or higher. This course
must be for at least 3 points of credit and be taught in Spanish. Courses taught in
English may not be used for language AP credit. The department grants 0 credits for a
score of 4 on the AP Spanish Language exam, but the foreign language requirement is
satisfied. The department grants 3 credits for a score of 5 on the AP Spanish Literature
exam, which satisfies the foreign language requirement. Credit is awarded upon successful completion of a 3300-level (or higher) course with a grade of B or higher. This course
must be for at least 3 points of credit and be taught in Spanish. Courses taught in English

4
0
may not be used for language AP credit. The department grants 0 credits for a score of 4

on the AP Spanish Literature exam, but the foreign language requirement is satisfied.

Statistics 5
3 The department grants 3 credits for a score of 5 on the AP Statistics exam. Students who
are required to take introductory statistics for their major should check with their major
adviser to determine if this credit provides exemption from their requirement.
Columbia College
13
Fellowships
Columbia College
FELLOWSHIPS
BUSINESS SCHOOL
college.columbia.edu/students/fellowships
Admission to business school depends on the quality of overall

academic work and related experiences. Students planning to
attend a graduate school of business may major in whatever field
interests them; however, the undergraduate program should
include courses that improve analytical and quantitative skills.
The Office of Global Programs and Fellowships (606 Kent)

supports students applying for national and international fellowships. Services range from ascertaining which fellowships
are most appropriate given a students academic performance,
aspirations, and values, to helping applicants with requirements
such as personal statements or research proposals, to preparing
candidates through mock interviews. The goal is to give each
student the necessary personalized training to submit the most
compelling application possible.
PREPARATION FOR FUTURE

PROFESSIONAL STUDY
PREPROFESSIONAL ADVISING
cc-seas.columbia.edu/preprofessional
Advising includes Preprofessional Advising for Columbia College and The Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied
Science. Preprofessional advisers provide information for students
planning a career in law, business, or one of the health professions. They advise and assist students throughout their four years
and beyond, working most intensively with students during their
application year.
MEDICAL SCHOOL
If you are thinking about attending medical school, you should

attend the Prehealth Advising meeting during New Student
Orientation. This program will introduce you to the premedical curriculum and advising system and give you detailed advice
about planning your schedule.
LAW SCHOOL
Law schools do not require a specific course of study; they prefer

that applicants have a broad background of knowledge, with
extensive work in writing and good analytical skills. Admission
to schools of law depends on the quality of academic work
rather than on the field of study. Your undergraduate program
should include courses with substantial writing and reading
components that strengthen analytical and research skills.
14
ENGINEERING 3-2 PROGRAM
This program is for students who wish to earn both the B.A.
and B.S. degrees in five years. Students enter The Fu Foundation
School of Engineering and Applied Science after their third year
in the College. For more information, see the Columbia
Engineering Bulletin, at bulletin.engineering.columbia.edu/
combined-plan-programs.
NEW YORK STATE INITIAL TEACHING
CERTIFICATION
Columbia College students may qualify for New York State

Initial Certification in either childhood education or adolescence education through the Barnard College Education
Program. An information packet and application can be picked
up at 336 Milbank Hall or downloaded from the website at
education.barnard.edu.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q. How many classes should I take?
A. Most students take four or five classes a semester
(1516 points).
Q. What classes am I required to take in my first year?
A. All Columbia College first-year students must take Literature
Humanities (a two-semester course), University Writing (one
semester), and Frontiers of Science (one semester). If space is
available, you are encouraged to take Art Humanities or Music
Humanities.
Q. What should I do if I have not placed out of the language
requirement?
A. You should begin or continue to take a language in the first year.
Q. What if I am considering going to medical school after
I graduate?
Columbia College
Q. I am interested in majoring in a science. What courses

should I take?
A. Focus on the introductory math and science courses required by
your prospective major department.
Q. I am a humanities/social sciences type of person. What might
my first-year schedule look like?
A. Assuming you havent placed out of language, your first-year
schedule might include Literature Humanities, University
writing, Frontiers of science, a language, and two or three
elective courses of your choosing.
Q. What if I have no idea what I want to major in?
A. Most incoming students start exploring different departments by
taking at least one elective course each semester. An elective is a
course of your own choosing, in any department. First-year students are advised to select introductory courses, which are usually
at the 1000 or 2000 level. Also, plan to speak with your adviser
early about the many resources and opportunities available to
help you explore major options.
Q. How do I find out what courses are offered?
A. Consult the online Columbia College Bulletin at
college.columbia.edu/bulletin.
ACADEMIC RESOURCES AND GUIDES

FOR STUDENTS
BULLETIN
bulletin.columbia.edu/columbia-college
From course descriptions to major requirements to rules, regulations, and disciplinary procedures, the Columbia College Bulletin is
the official source for answers to your academic questions.
DIRECTORY OF CLASSES
columbia.edu/cu/bulletin/uwb
ty (with the exception of Teachers College). Students should use

the Bulletin for registration purposes, as not all courses in the
Directory are open to all students. See your adviser if you have
any questions about which courses are available to you.
STUDENT SERVICES ONLINE
ssol.columbia.edu
Student Services Online (SSOL) provides instant access to
student records, including grades, registration appointments,
class schedules, financial aid information, and account details.
Official transcripts may also be ordered via SSOL. To access
this information, students must first activate their Columbia
UNI at uni.columbia.edu. Among the many useful components is the Degree Audit Report (DAR). The DAR is a way
for students to monitor their progress toward degree completion. Keep in mind that the DAR is a tool and not the
authoritative transcript. All degree and major requirements are
set forth in your schools Bulletin.
Academic Resources and Guides for Students
A. You should take chemistry, chemistry lab, and possibly calculus in

your first year. You should also attend the Prehealth Advising
meeting during New Student Orientation.
VERGIL
vergil.registrar.columbia.edu
Vergil contains consolidated course information from the
Bulletin and Directory of Classes and allows you to search for
courses by instructor, date and time, department, subject area,
key words, and more. Vergils Course Planner and graphical
calendar interface enable you to keep track of courses of interest
and export your projected schedule to your other calendar apps.
You can also browse courses, syllabi, and textbook information,
export your course selections to your SSOL Wish List, and be
ready to register as soon as your appointment time arrives.
DEPARTMENTAL RESOURCES
Many academic resources are available through the departments.

For additional information regarding each of these services, it is
best to refer to an individual departments website.
Faculty and teaching assistant office hours are posted on
course syllabi, departmental websites, and faculty office doors.
Office hours are times set aside by a faculty member to meet
with students to clarify concepts, discuss assignments, and mentor potential majors. You should take advantage of these hours
to ask questions, address concerns, and connect with faculty.
The Directory of Classes contains a list of all courses offered in

all undergraduate and graduate programs at Columbia Universi-
Columbia College
15
Columbia College
Help Rooms are available for subjects taught in a number

of departments, including physics, statistics, mathematics, and frontiers of science. During these open hours, you
may ask questions of faculty and graduate assistants. Help
Room schedules are available on the relevant departmental
websites.
The Writing Center is located in 310 Philosophy Hall. It is
staffed by graduate-student tutors and provides writers of all
levels and abilitiesfrom first-year students to seniors working on their theseswith the opportunity to have detailed
conversations about their writing with experienced readers.
Tutors will work with students at any stage in the writing process. Students may sign up for appointments at the Center or
simply drop by during operating hours. You may contact the
Writing Center at 212-854-3886 or at uwp@columbia.edu.
For more information, see college.columbia.edu/core/uwp/
writing-center.
The Language Resource Center, located in 353 International
Affairs Building, provides collections and facilities for the more
than 40 languages taught at Columbia University. These include
language labs, several classrooms, and video-viewing facilities
for use by individuals and small groups of up to 20. Students
should take advantage of these services in order to practice
their listening comprehension skills. For more information, visit
lrc.columbia.edu.
TUTORING
cc-seas.columbia.edu/csa/tutoring
Tutoring is run by the James H. and Christine Turk Berick
Center for Student Advising and provides peer tutoring in a
broad range of introductory courses. Trained tutors assist students with mastering course content, sharpening testing skills,
and maximizing their potential for academic success. Students
should meet with their academic adviser to request a tutor as
soon as the need becomes apparent. Additionally, the CSA also
offers Academic Success Seminars throughout each semester. The
topics of these seminars range from time management and notetaking to stress management. Seminars are open to all students.
COLUMBIA UNIVERSIT Y LIBRARIES
library.columbia.edu
The Columbia University Libraries is made up of 21 distinct
libraries. They are centers for pursuing scholarly research, for
learning about and using information technology, and for
writing and studying. They offer a rich collection of print and
electronic resources. The Library Information Office, located
in Butler Library, Room 201, answers general questions about
any of the Libraries services and resources. Workshops are
provided throughout the year to familiarize students with the
available services.
BOOKSTORE
columbia.bncollege.com
The Columbia bookstore is located in the basement of Lerner
Hall. It is a full-service bookstore for the purchase of textbooks
as well as other books of all categories, stationery, Columbia apparel, and household items for dormitory living.
16
Columbia College
COLUMBIA COLLEGE
WORKSHEET
This worksheet is designed to help you start thinking about your first semester and potential courses of study at Columbia,
as well as to prepare for your first meeting with your adviser.
Name:
UNI:
Cell phone #:
Using the online resources listed below, please create two possible schedules for the fall term. Be sure to include at
least two or three courses that may lead to a major or concentration. Please keep in mind that you will be pre-enrolled in
Literature Humanities and either University Writing or Frontiers of Science.
Columbia College Bulletin (bulletin.columbia.edu/columbia-college): a list of courses and descriptions of all majors
Directory of Classes (columbia.edu/cu/bulletin/uwb): a list of all courses offered at Columbia University*
Vergil (vergil.registrar.columbia.edu): an online scheduling tool that links to the Bulletin and Directory
FALL 2015 OPTION 1
FALL 2015 OPTION 2
1. Lit Hum
1. Lit Hum
2. University Writing or Frontiers of Science
2. University Writing or Frontiers of Science
3.
3.
4.
4.
5.
5.
QUESTIONS?
Use the space below to write down any questions or concerns you would like to discuss with your adviser. These may be academic or nonacademic, and they may pertain to the transition to college, the role of your adviser, registration details, personal
long- and short-term goals, extracurricular interests, etc.
*Not all classes are open to Columbia College students. Check the Open To field for the relevant class in the online directory, and ask your
adviser if you have any questions.
Columbia College
17
THE FU FOUNDATION
SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING
AND APPLIED SCIENCE
The Basics
The Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science
THE BASICS
To earn a Bachelor of Science degree from The Fu Foundation
School of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS), you must
earn at least 128 points of credit. Students take a minimum of
five classes each term. You are expected to complete all requirements within eight semesters of study. The Bachelor of Science
degree includes:
1. The first-year/sophomore technical requirements:
Calculus (some departments have additional
math requirements)
Physics
Chemistry
The Art of Engineering (ENGI 1102)
Computer science
Lab requirement for selected major
2. At least 27 points of nontechnical requirements:
University Writing (ENGL 1010)
Core Humanities sequence
Art or Music Humanities
Principles of Economics (ECON 1105)
34 courses of the students own choosing
3. Requirements for a major
4. Physical education (two one-semester courses)
The first- and second-year curriculum at Columbia Engineering is designed to provide you with a firm background in pure
science as well as a comprehensive grounding in the humanities.
In this section, you will find detailed information on what to
expect academically in your first two years.
FIRST-YEAR/SOPHOMORE
TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS
CALCULUS
20
What is required? Completion of Calculus IIII or IV,

depending on SEAS major
When? All students must take calculus at

the appropriate level in the first
year.
Can I test out? No. However, previous background

will determine placement level.
LEVELS OF CALCULUS
Calculus I: Covers primarily differential calculus of functions of

one variable with geometric applications and the Fundamental
Theorem of Calculus. Take Calculus I if you:
have not taken calculus in high school, or
have less than a full year of high school calculus, or
have a full year of calculus but have a score of less than 4 on
an AP exam.
Calculus II: Covers special functions, integration techniques,
more geometric applications of integration, and infinite series,
including Taylor series. Take Calculus II if you:
received a 4 or 5 on the AB exam, or
received a 4 on the BC exam, or
received a 6 or 7 on the IB HL calculus exam, or
received an A or B on the A-level GCE Further Maths exam
didnt take an AP exam but received a grade of A in a full-year
high school calculus course.
Note: SEAS students with a 4 or 5 on Calc AB, or a 4 on Calc BC,
must begin with Calculus II. If a SEAS student with these scores
self-places into Calculus III, he or she will be required to go back
and take Calculus II. Students who have not taken an AP exam will
have an opportunity to take a placement test during NSOP.
Calculus III: Starts with vector algebra in 3-space and complex
numbers (with application to certain ordinary differential equations), and covers vector differential calculus in several variables,
including Lagrange multipliers. Take Calculus III if you received
a score of 5 on the BC exam.
Calculus IV: Covers multiple integrals, line and surface integrals,
and vector integral calculus of functions of two and three
variables, including the theorems of Green, Gauss, and Stokes.
At the end there is an introduction to either the theory of
functions of a complex variable or Fourier series.
Note: If a student has taken an equivalent math course (beyond
Calculus I and Calculus II) that covers material beyond the Advanced Placement BC curriculum (e.g., Calculus III, Calculus IV)
at a four-year accredited college and received a B+ or better, that
student may take the math placement exam for placement into
Calculus III, Calculus IV, or out of Calculus IV.
Placement into the appropriate level math course will be determined by the Department of Mathematics, with final approval
It is imperative that SEAS students heed the above guidelines

for two reasons:
1. Students must master the material covered in both Calculus
II and III in order to lay the groundwork for success in the
SEAS curriculum.
2. Accreditation guidelines outlined by ABET (Accreditation
Board for Engineering and Technology) require that
students either fulfill the requisite amount of calculus as
indicated for the major or prove equivalent knowledge.
PHYSICS

What is required? At least a one-year sequence of introductory physics at the 1400 level
or higher; some majors may require
one or more additional courses
This sequence is intended for students who are going into

departments that make active use of physics. It is a more mathematical sequence than the 1400 series.
Note: It is highly recommended that students who place into
Calculus III enroll in this 1600-level track.
Track 3
PHYS 2801: Accelerated Physics I
PHYS 2802: Accelerated Physics II
This sequence is extremely challenging and is designed primarily
for applied physics majors and students with an intense interest
in physics. It is possible to place into the Accelerated Physics
course in one of two ways:
a placement test during Orientation, or
a 4 or 5 on the AP Physics Exam and a 5 on the Calculus
BC AP Exam.
All students interested in taking Accelerated Physics should attend
the information session offered during Orientation.
CHEMISTRY

When? First year, fall and spring.

Can I test out? No. However, your previous background in physics and/or the physics
placement test given during Orientation will help to determine placement
level.
All SEAS students are required to take physics in their first year.
Students may choose from three sequences, or tracks:
Track 1
PHYS 1401: Introduction to Mechanics and Thermodynamics
PHYS 1402: Introduction to Electricity, Magnetism, and Optics
This sequence is intended for SEAS students who are going into
departments that do not make essential use of physics. The 1400-level
track is less mathematical and more oriented toward problem solving.
Note: Students who begin with Calculus I must take this sequence.
Track 2
PHYS 1601: Mechanics and Relativity
PHYS 1602: Thermodynamics, Electricity, and Magnetism
First-Year/Sophomore Technical Requirements
by the SEAS Deans Office. Documentation will take the form of

a course equivalence signed by the Department of Mathematics
and countersigned by the Vice Dean for Undergraduate Programs
in SEAS. Students placing out of Calculus III and/or IV will be
required to replace those credits with alternative, upper-level math
courses from a list of SEAS-approved courses. Those alternative
choices cannot be used to satisfy any major requirements.
What is required? At least one semester of chemistry

(possibly two, depending on
your major)
When? Recommended fall of the first year.
Can I test out? No. However, your previous background in chemistry and/or your
score on the chemistry placement
exam taken during Orientation will
help to determine placement level.
All students wishing to place into a higher level of chemistry than

1403-1404 must attend a chemistry information session and take
a placement exam during Orientation. The chemistry class you take
will be determined by the results of that placement exam.
There are three different tracks in chemistry:
Track 1
CHEM 1403-1404: General Chemistry (fall, spring)
CHEM 1500: General Chemistry Lab (fall or spring, usually
taken in the first year)
Track 2
CHEM 1604: Intensive General Chemistry (fall of first year)
CHEM 1500: General Chemistry Lab (fall or spring, usually taken
in the first year) or CHEM 1507: Intensive General Chemistry Lab
(if you place into it)
SEAS
21
Nontechnical Requirements
Track 3
CHEM 2045: Intensive Organic Chemistry (fall of first year)
CHEM 2046: Intensive Organic Chemistry (spring of first year)
CHEM 1507: Intensive General Chemistry Lab (spring of first year)
There are only four majors (biomedical engineering, chemical
engineering, Earth and environmental engineering, and
materials science) that require two semesters of chemistry. All
other majors require only one semester. It is recommended that
students fulfill this requirement in their first year, but in some
cases it may be possible to postpone chemistry until the
sophomore year after consultation with your adviser.
ENGI 1006: Introduction to Computing for Engineers and

Applied Scientists
COMS 1004: Introduction to Computer Science and
Programming in Java
COMS 1005: Introduction to Computer Science and
Programming in MATLAB
LAB

Note: Students who are considering the premedical curriculum

must take a full year of chemistry and the appropriate lab in
their first year, regardless of major.
THE ART OF ENGINEERING

What is required? One semester of ENGI 1102: The

Art of Engineering
When? Either fall or spring of the first year
(taken in the semester opposite
ENGL 1010: University Writing).
Can I test out? No.

Special note: In most cases, you may make
your own decision as to whether
you want to take a chemistry or
physics lab. Students who choose
chemistry lab should take it in the
first year. Students who choose
physics lab must wait until their
second year. There are a few SEAS
majors that specify either chemistry or physics lab (or require both).
Students should consult with their
adviser and/or the Bulletin before
choosing a lab.
NONTECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS
What is required? 27 points of nontechnical coursework;
1618 of these points are mandated
by SEAS, and 911 points are electives
COMPUTER SCIENCE

What is required? One semester of a computer

science programming course is
required for all majors
When? First or second year.

Can I test out? It is unlikely. Consult with your
adviser.
Students choose from one of the following, depending on

their anticipated major:
22
When? First or second year.
Can I test out? No.
This course is a bridge between the science-oriented, high school

way of thinking and the engineering point of view. Fundamental
concepts of math and science are reviewed and reframed in an
engineering context, with numerous examples of each concept
drawn from all disciplines of engineering represented at
Columbia. Nontechnical issues of importance in professional
engineering practice such as ethics, engineering project management, and societal impact are addressed.
What is required? One semester of chemistry and/or

physics laboratory work; selection
will depend upon major
When?
Before graduation.
Note:
University Writing (ENGL 1010)
must be taken in the first year.
Can I test out? No, but AP scores may be applied
toward portions of the 27-point
nontechnical requirement.
Required Nontechnical Courses (1618 Points)

University Writing (ENGL 1010) 3 pts. Required in first year.
Core Humanities sequence: Masterpieces of Western Literature
and Philosophy (HUMA 1001-1002); Introduction to Contemporary Civilization in the West (COCI 1101-1102); or a Global
Core sequence. 68 pts. Recommended in second year.
Principles of Economics (ECON 1105) 4 pts. Recommended in

first or second year.
Elective Nontechnical Courses (Minimum of 9 Points)

Of the 27-point nontechnical requirement, 1618 points
will be fulfilled by taking the required courses listed above.
The remaining 911 points (three or four classes) are at your
discretion. Please consult the SEAS Bulletin for additional
information on appropriate courses in each of the approved
liberal arts disciplines: bulletin.engineering.columbia.edu/
b-elective-nontechnical-courses.
UNIVERSIT Y WRITING

What is required? One semester of University Writing

(ENGL 1010)
When? Either fall or spring of the first year

(taken in the semester opposite
ENGI 1102).
Can I test out? No.
University Writing is designed to help undergraduates develop

the reading and writing skills they need to participate fully in
the intellectual life of the University. The course gives special
attention to close reading, rhetorical analysis, research, collaboration, and substantive revision. Refining their ideas and their
prose through multiple drafts of their essays, students learn that
writing is a skill that can be developed through practice.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION


Can I test out? No.
The physical education component of the Core emphasizes the

importance of balancing mind and body. The department offers
a variety of activities in the areas of aquatics, fitness, martial arts,
team sports, and outdoor education.
Students who participate in an intercollegiate sport can receive
physical education credit by registering for the appropriate team
section of PHED 1005: Intercollegiate Athletics.
MAJORS AND MINORS

Columbia Engineering students must complete the
requirements for a major. Major requirements can be found
on the website of the Columbia Engineering Bulletin,
bulletin.engineering.columbia.edu, listed under each department. Students will declare their major online during the first
semester of their sophomore year. Students who are undecided
should talk to their advising dean about ways to assess their options and narrow down the choices. Students may opt to declare
one or more minors at the same time.
Registration Advice
Masterpieces of Western Art (HUMA 1121) or Masterpieces of

Western Music (HUMA 1123) 3 pts. Can be taken at any time.
Double Minors/Double Majors: Students may declare more

than one minor but may not use the same courses to satisfy
the requirements of more than one minor. To double major,
students are required to have approval from both departments,
with a signed plan to complete all requirements within eight
semesters. This plan must be approved by the Vice Dean for
Undergraduate Programs in SEAS.
REGISTRATION ADVICE
You will be preregistered for either University Writing or The
Art of Engineering for the Fall 2016 semester. You must also
enroll in calculus and physics, and it is strongly recommended that you take chemistry. You are responsible for choosing
the level and section of these classes as well as at least one
other elective course. Using the Directory of Classes (columbia.edu/cu/bulletin/uwb), create a few sample schedules with
alternate sections. For each course, write down the course
title and section number, credits, and call number, and check
to see if the class has an accompanying recitation or discussion section.
You will register online beginning on the Friday of New Student Orientation. You should already have received a mailing
with an assigned UNI (Columbia login and email address) and
password. You will use them to create an email account and log
into Student Services Online (SSOL) at ssol.columbia.edu. To
see when and where your preregistered classes meet, click on
Schedule. Your registration appointment times are under Reg
Appts.
Your schedule may not be complete at the end of the first
registration appointment times. You will have the opportunity
to finalize your schedule during the first weeks of classes, when
there is a lot of movement in enrollment.
SEAS
23
Study Abroad
STUDY ABROAD
bulletin.engineering.columbia.edu/study-abroad
SEAS students interested in studying abroad must plan their
schedules early and with care. Global Initiatives, in conjunction with the Office of Global Programs and Fellowships,
helps students take part in intellectually rigorous international
educational experiences that enhance and complement their
Columbia education as well as their personal, academic, and
professional growth. Students from every major should explore
the possibilities that international education has to offer. Visit
the Academic Resources Fair during Orientation, the annual
Study Abroad Fair, the Global Initiatives Office (254 Mudd),
and the Office of Global Programs and Fellowships (606 Kent)
for personalized advising about the variety of study-abroad opportunities available.
FELLOWSHIPS
The Fellowships Office (606 Kent) helps students apply for
national and international fellowships. Services range from
ascertaining which fellowships are most appropriate given a
students academic performance, aspirations, and values, to
helping applicants on such requirements as personal statements or research proposals, to preparing candidates through
mock interviews. The goal is to give each student the necessary
personalized training to submit the most compelling application possible.
ADVANCED STANDING
Columbia Engineering grants up to 16 credits earned from
Advanced Placement (AP), General Certificate of Education
Advanced Level Examinations (A levels), the International
Baccalaureate Examination (IB), and other national systems. A
complete description of policies, credits, and/or exemptions can
be found in the SEAS Bulletin: bulletin.engineering.columbia.
edu/advanced-placement. Please note that students are governed
by the advanced-standing policies that are in place during their
first year at Columbia.
Students who wish to receive credit may not register for courses
at Columbia that cover similar or more basic material than the
work already completed, nor may a student receive credit for
two exams that cover the same material (for example, Calculus
24
AP and Mathematics A-Level). In some cases, the student must

complete a particular course before credit will be awarded.
Advanced standing credit is awarded prior to the sophomore
year in accordance with the policies stated in that years SEAS
Bulletin. Advanced placement credit in appropriate nontechnical
areas may be applied toward the 27-point nontechnical
requirement.
Pending review by the appropriate department at Columbia,
students whose secondary school work was in other national
systems (such as the French baccalaurat) may be granted credit
in certain disciplines for sufficiently high scores. The appropriate
transcript should be submitted to the James H. and Christine
Turk Berick Center for Student Advising.
Appropriate placement should not depend simply upon test
scores and the credit you hope to receive upon evaluation of
those scores. For some students, appropriate placement may
mean forfeiting advanced credit to achieve stronger preparation
in a subject area.
Entering students may receive up to 6 points of credit toward
the Columbia degree for college courses taken after graduation
from secondary school and prior to enrollment in SEAS. You
must earn a minimum grade of B in order to receive credit. If
you would like to exercise this option, you must consult with
the Berick Center for Student Advising before enrolling.
Official transcripts for this work, along with catalog descriptions
and a copy of the syllabus for each course, should be submitted
to the Berick Center for Student Advising for review. There is no
guarantee of credit, which will be awarded only upon approval by
the CSA. If you plan to take summer classes through Columbias
Summer Session, you must obtain approval from the CSA prior
to enrollment. Please be aware that students who have not yet
matriculated in the University are not allowed to live on
campus, so you will need to explore alternate housing options.
Grades for summer school classes taken prior to matriculation
will not be calculated into the Columbia GPA and the classes
might not count toward your eventual major, even if
the summer classes are taken at Columbia.
Note: You will not be granted credit for courses taken at other
colleges prior to your graduation from secondary school.
Advanced Placement
ADVANCED PLACEMENT CREDIT CHART

In order to receive AP credit, students must send official score reports to Columbia. The CEEB code is 2116.
SUBJECT
SCORE
CREDIT
REQUIREMENTS OR PLACEMENT STATUS CREDIT
Art History
No exemption from HUMA 1121
Biology
5 3 No exemption
Chemistry

4 or 5
4 or 5
3 Requires completion of CHEM 1604 with grade of C or better.

6 Requires completion of CHEM 3045-3046 with grade of C or better.
Computer
4 or 5
3
Exemption from COMS 1004
Science A
Economics
Micro & Macro
5 & 4
4 Exemption from ECON 1105 (Test must be in both with a score of 5 in

one and at least 4 in the other.)
English
Language and
5 3 No exemption
Composition
Literature and
5 3 No exemption
Composition
French
Language
Literature
4 or 5
4 or 5
3
3
German
4 or 5
Government
and Politics
United States
Comparative
4 or 5
4 or 5
3*
3*
History
European 5
United States 5
3
3
Italian
4 or 5
Exemption from POLS 1201

Exemption from POLS 1501
Latin 5 3
Mathematics
Calculus AB
4 or 5
Calculus BC
4
Calculus BC
5
3** Credit reduced to 0 if MATH 1101 is taken.

3** Credit reduced to 0 if MATH 1101 is taken.
6 Credit reduced to 0 if MATH 1101 is taken or to 3 if
MATH 1102 is taken.
Music Theory
5 3
Physics (6 credits maximum)
C-MECH
4 or 5
C-E&M
4 or 5
Physics B
4 or 5
3 Credit reduced to 0 if PHYS 1401 or 1601 is taken. Credit reduced to 0

if PHYS 2801 is taken and the final grade is C or lower.
3 Credit reduced to 0 if PHYS 1402 or 1602 is taken. Credit reduced to 0
if PHYS 2801 is taken and the final grade is C or lower.
3
No exemption.
Spanish
Language
Literature
4 or 5
4 or 5
3
3
*Credit is awarded upon completion of a 3000-level (or higher) course with a grade of C or higher.
**SEAS students with a 4 or 5 on Calculus AB or a 4 on Calculus BC must begin with Calculus II. If a SEAS student with these scores goes directly into Calculus III, he or she will
have to go back and complete Calculus II. Students with A-level or IB calculus credit must start with Calculus II.
SEAS
25
Preparation for Future Professional Study
PREPARATION FOR FUTURE

PROFESSIONAL STUDY
PREPROFESSIONAL ADVISING
Advising includes Preprofessional Advising for Columbia College and Columbia Engineering. Preprofessional advisers provide
information for students planning a career in law, business, or
one of the health professions. They advise and assist students
throughout their four years and beyond, working most closely
with students during their application year.
MEDICAL SCHOOL
If you are thinking about attending medical school, you should

attend the Prehealth Advising meeting during Orientation. This
program will introduce you to the premedical curriculum and
advising system and give you detailed advice about planning
your schedule.
LAW SCHOOL
Law schools do not require a specific course of study; they prefer

that applicants have a broad background of knowledge. Admission to schools of law depends on the quality of academic work
rather than on the field of study. However, it is important that
you choose nontechnical electives that have substantial writing
and reading components, to strengthen and demonstrate your
writing and analytical skills.
BUSINESS SCHOOL
Admission to business school depends on the quality of overall

academic work and related experiences. Students planning to
attend a graduate school of business may major in whatever field
interests them.
4-1 PROGRAM
This program allows SEAS students to earn a B.A. from Columbia College, as well as a B.S. from Columbia Engineering,
in five years of study. SEAS students who plan to enter the 41
Combined Plan Program offered through Columbia College
are advised to apply for admission in April of their third year.
Final acceptance is contingent upon completion of the B.S. and
the entire Columbia College Core Curriculum. Consult your
adviser for more information.
26
NEW YORK STATE INITIAL

TEACHING CERTIFICATION
SEAS students may qualify for New York State Initial Certification in either childhood education or adolescence education
through the Barnard College Education Program. An information packet and application can be picked up at 336 Milbank
Hall or downloaded from the website at education.barnard.
edu.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q. How many classes must I complete each semester to fulfill
the basic requirements for graduation?
A. Students should take an average of 16 points of credit (five or
six classes) per semester in order to fulfill the 128 points needed to
graduate in eight semesters. First-year students usually take five
classes in their first semester.
Q. As a first-semester SEAS student, what classes am I required
to take?
A. SEAS first years must take calculus, physics, and either University Writing (ENGL 1010) or The Art of Engineering (ENGI
1102) in their first semester (one or the other will be preregistered
for you before you arrive for Orientation). Students should also be
enrolled in chemistry in the fall, although in rare cases it may be
postponed until the spring.
Q. I dont know what level of calculus, chemistry, and/or physics
I should be in.
A. Placement tests will be given in chemistry and physics during
Orientation week, and the results will be posted before the start
of registration. Your AP scores and background in math will help
determine correct placement.
Q. Where can I find course descriptions, a complete listing of
SEAS majors and minors, and a calendar of important dates like
Thanksgiving and finals week?
A. The SEAS Bulletin! You will receive a Bulletin when you check
in for Orientation, but in the meantime you can access it at
bulletin.engineering.columbia.edu.
SEAS BULLETIN
bulletin.engineering.columbia.edu
From course descriptions and major requirements to rules,
regulations, and disciplinary procedures, the SEAS Bulletin is
the official source for answers to your academic questions.
DIRECTORY OF CLASSES
columbia.edu/cu/bulletin/uwb
The Directory of Classes contains a list of all courses offered in
all undergraduate and graduate programs at Columbia University (with the exception of Teachers College). Students should use
the Bulletin for registration purposes, as not all courses in the
Directory are open to all students. See your adviser if you have
any questions about which courses are available to you.
export your course selections to your SSOL Wish List, and be

ready to register as soon as your appointment time arrives.
DEPARTMENTAL RESOURCES
A number of academic resources are available through the

departments. For additional information regarding each of these
services, it is best to refer to an individual departments website.
Faculty and teaching assistant office hours are posted on
course syllabi, departmental websites, and faculty office doors.
Office hours are times set aside by a faculty member to meet
with students to clarify concepts, discuss assignments, and mentor potential majors. You should take advantage of these hours
to ask questions, address concerns, and connect with faculty.
ACADEMIC RESOURCES AND

GUIDES FOR STUDENTS
Help Rooms are available for subjects taught in a number of

departments, including physics, statistics, and mathematics.
During these open hours, you may ask questions of faculty and
graduate assistants. Help Room schedules are available on the
relevant departmental websites.
STUDENT SERVICES ONLINE
ssol.columbia.edu
Student Services Online (SSOL) provides instant access to
student records, including grades, registration appointments,
class schedules, financial aid information, and account details.
Official transcripts may also be ordered via SSOL. To access this
information, students must first activate their Columbia UNI at
uni.columbia.edu.
Among the many useful components is the Degree Audit Report
(DAR). The DAR is a way for students to monitor their progress
toward degree completion. Keep in mind that the DAR is a
tool and not the authoritative transcript. All degree and major
requirements are set forth in your schools Bulletin.
VERGIL
vergil.registrar.columbia.edu
Vergil contains consolidated course information from the
Bulletin and Directory of Classes and allows you to search for
courses by instructor, date and time, department, subject area,
key words, and more. Vergils Course Planner and graphical
calendar interface enable you to keep track of courses of interest
and export your projected schedule to your other calendar apps.
You can also browse courses, syllabi, and textbook information,
The Writing Center is located in 310 Philosophy Hall. It is

staffed by graduate-student tutors and provides writers of all
levels and abilitiesfrom first-year students to seniors working
on their theseswith the opportunity to have detailed conversations about their writing with experienced readers. Tutors will
work with students at any stage in the writing process. Students
may sign up for appointments at the Center or simply drop by
during operating hours. You may contact the Writing Center at
212-854-3886 or at uwp@columbia.edu. For more information,
see college.columbia.edu/core/uwp/writing-center.
TUTORING
cc-seas.columbia.edu/csa/tutoring
Advising and provides peer tutoring in a broad range of introductory courses. Trained tutors assist students with mastering
course content, sharpening testing skills, and maximizing their
potential for academic success. Students should meet with their
academic adviser to request a tutor as soon as the need becomes
apparent. Additionally, the CSA also offers Academic Success
Seminars throughout each semester. The topics of these seminars
range from time management and note-taking to stress management. Seminars are open to all students.
SEAS
27
28
COLUMBIA UNIVERSIT Y LIBRARIES
BOOKSTORE
The Columbia University Libraries is made up of 21 distinct

libraries. They are wonderful gathering places for pursuing
scholarly research, for learning about and using information
technology, and for writing and studying. They offer a rich collection of print and electronic resources.
The Columbia bookstore is located in the basement of Lerner

Hall. It is a full-service bookstore for the purchase of textbooks
as well as a variety of other books of all categories, stationery,
Columbia apparel, and household items for dormitory living.
The Library Information Office, located in Butler Library,

Room 201, answers general questions about any of the Libraries
services and resources. Workshops are offered throughout the
year to familiarize students with the available services.
THE FU FOUNDATION SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING AND

APPLIED SCIENCE
WORKSHEET
This worksheet is designed to help you start thinking about your first semester and potential courses of study at Columbia,
as well as to prepare for your first meeting with your adviser.
Name:
UNI:
Cell phone #:
Using the online resources listed below, please create possible schedules for the fall term. Keep in mind that in your first term
you must take Calculus, Physics, Chemistry, and either University Writing or The Art of Engineering. Your level of Physics,
Chemistry, and Calculus will depend on AP/IB scores as well as placement exams given during New Student Orientation. Indicate several choices for your fifth course.
SEAS Bulletin (bulletin.engineering.columbia.edu): a list of courses and descriptions of all majors
Directory of Classes (columbia.edu/cu/bulletin/uwb): a list of all courses offered at Columbia University*
Vergil (vergil.registrar.columbia.edu): an online scheduling tool that links to the Bulletin and Directory
1. Calculus (please indicate anticipated level):

2. Physics (please indicate anticipated level):
3. Chemistry (please indicate anticipated level):
4. The Art of Engineering/University Writing
5.
QUESTIONS?
Use the space below to write down any questions or concerns you would like to discuss with your adviser. These may be academic or nonacademic, and they may pertain to the transition to college, the role of your adviser, registration details, personal
long- and short-term goals, extracurricular interests, etc.
*Not all classes are open to Columbia Engineering students. Check the Open To field for the relevant class in the online Directory, and ask
your adviser if you have any questions.
SEAS
29
TRANSFER AND
COMBINED PLAN
The Bascis
Transfer and Combined Plan
THE BASICS
Transfer students are expected to graduate in eight
semesters, including terms completed before entering
Columbia.
Extended time will not be granted to finish a particular
major.
Some majors may not be available to transfer students.
A normal course load for Columbia students is four to
five academic classes a semester.
Transfer students must complete a minimum of 60 credits
at Columbia.

You will be assigned an adviser who will follow your
academic progress throughout your time at Columbia
College (CC) or Columbia Engineering (SEAS). You
are encouraged to talk with your adviser about a variety
of issues, including:
general academic questions, concerns, or difficulties
registration questions and problems
changes in academic program, in consultation with faculty
advisers
receiving transfer, AP/IB/GCE, or summer course
credit
premed and prelaw requirements and other academic
opportunities
understanding University policies and petitioning for
exceptions to academic policy
planning to study abroad
progress toward and completion of requirements for the
degree
personal problems and concerns
leaves of absence
referrals to other resources on campus
future life plans
TRANSFER CREDIT EVALUATIONS

The courses you have taken at outside institutions (or at
Columbia while not matriculated as a Columbia College
or SEAS student) have been reviewed. For courses that are
32
substantively similar to those taught at CC or SEAS, credit

has been tentatively awarded. The Transfer Credit Evaluation
(TCE) or the Combined Plan Transfer Evaluation that you
received this spring identifies which credits from your prior
or home institution have been accepted for transfer to your
Columbia degree.
Some TCEs may note that specific course syllabi are needed for
further credit review. Please forward any additional paperwork
directly to the Berick Center for Student Advising.
Credit and course approvals are two separate issues. Credit gets
you closer to the 124 (CC) or 128 (SEAS) points you need to
complete your Columbia degree. Course approval means that
you have satisfied a particular requirement. The credit shown on
your TCE is general degree credit, unrelated to any course approvals. Sometimes (but rarely) a course approval for a requirement is given without any corresponding credit.
To receive the B.A. degree from Columbia College or the B.S.
degree from SEAS, you must complete a minimum of 60 points
of credit at Columbia. For CC students, no more than 64 points
from outside sources will be counted toward the degree, and no
more than 68 points for students at SEAS. Outside sources of
credit include transfer credit from another college and advanced
standing earned on the basis of Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, and other standardized examinations.
Credit is not granted for college-level courses taken while in
high school.
You have been assigned a class standing and an expected
graduation date based on previously completed academic
work. Your class standing may be changed upon receipt of an
updated transcript. All students at CC and SEAS are
expected to graduate within eight semesters, including
semesters completed before entry. The expected graduation
date cannot be extended without petitioning the Committee
on Academic Standing. These petitions are granted only for
exceptional reasons, which do not include requests for extra
time to complete a specific major. You are expected to work
with your adviser to create a plan to graduate by the assigned
graduation date.
A final credit evaluation is completed when you matriculate
and a final official transcript and course descriptions have
been received.
Course approval for your major/concentration needs to be

carried out by a departmental representative in your intended
major department. Such exemptions cannot be granted by the
Berick Center for Student Advising. You will have an oppor
tunity to speak with departmental representatives during New
Student Orientation, at the Academic Resources Fair, and
during the first few weeks of the semester. It is recommended
that transfers entering as fifth-semester juniors with an expected
graduation of May 2018 make appointments with their faculty
adviser as soon as possible. Make sure that you bring appropriate course descriptions and transcripts so you can discuss major/
concentration requirements.
You must petition to request course approval for any of the Core
Curriculum requirements. During the summer, your adviser will
discuss the petition procedure with you.
COLUMBIA COLLEGE: THE CORE

CURRICULUM
Please review the detailed outline of the Columbia College
Core Curriculum in the CC section, or visit the website at
college.columbia.edu/core.
Core Curriculum requirements:
Masterpieces of Western Literature and Philosophy
(HUMA 1001-1002) (two semesters)
LITERATURE HUMANITIES

The edition used in Literature

Humanities classes is the
Lattimore (2011) translation.
UNIVERSIT Y WRITING

Masterpieces of Western Art (HUMA 1121)

(one semester)
Masterpieces of Western Music (HUMA 1123)
(one semester)
Global Core (two one-semester courses from the
approved course list)
Special note: All entering students taking Lit

Hum their first year should be
prepared to discuss the first twelve
books of The Iliad at the introductory lecture, which meets during the
week of New Student Orientation.
Transfer students will be presented

with a copy of The Iliad, a gift from
The Columbia College Alumni Association, when they arrive on campus in August. We suggest students
prepare for the first day of class by
reading either an electronic version
of The Iliad or a copy borrowed
from the local library.
Science (three semesters from the approved course list)

Introduction to Contemporary Civilization in the West
(COCI 1101-1102) (two semesters)
When? Fall and spring semester of the

first year.
May I test or place out? It is very unlikely that courses

taken at other institutions will be
considered adequate substitutions
for Lit Hum. If you feel strongly
that you do have a case for exemption, please contact your adviser.
University Writing (ENGL 1010) (one semester)

Foreign language (four semesters or the equivalent)
What is required?
HUMA 1001-1002: Masterpieces
of Western Literature and Philosophy
Course Approval
COURSE APPROVAL FOR THE

MAJOR/CONCENTRATION AND CORE
What is required? ENGL 1010: University Writing.

When? This course must be taken in the
first year, provided you have not
been granted exemption from the
requirement.
May I test or place out? You may petition to receive

exemption from the University
Writing requirement by submitting
a portfolio consisting of three
essays written for a course taken at
your prior institution. The petition
form and essays may be sent to the
Berick Center for Student Advising.
Physical education (PHED 1001-1002)

(two semesters, plus swim test)
33
CC: The Core Curriculum
CONTEMPORARY CIVILIZATION

What is required?
COCI 1101-1102: Introduction to
Contemporary Civilization in the
West, I and II
When? Fall and spring semester of
second year.
May I test or place out? It is very unlikely that courses

taken at other institutions will be
considered adequate substitutions
for CC. If you feel strongly that
you do have a case for exemption,
please contact your adviser.
GLOBAL CORE

May I test or place out? Students may petition for

exemption from one or both of the
requirements based on coursework completed at their previous institution. Your adviser will
provide information on the process.
Students may also double count
a Global Core course toward major/
concentration requirements.
ART HUMANITIES
What is required?
Western Art
May I test or place out? Students may not test out of this
requirement. Exemption from Art
Hum may be obtained by filing a
course substitution request. Exemption must be requested during
your first semester at Columbia. For
more information, please visit the
Center for the Core Curriculum in
202 Hamilton Hall.
MUSIC HUMANITIES

What is required?
HUMA W1123: Masterpieces of
Western Music
May I test or place out? While it is very difficult to obtain

exemption from this course,
students who are exceptionally
knowledgeable in this subject may
be exempted by passing an Exemption Exam or by filing a course
substitution request. Exemption
must be requested during your first
semester at Columbia. The Exemption Exam is usually offered on the
first Friday of the fall semester and
may be taken only once. For more
information, please visit the Center
for the Core Curriculum in 202
Hamilton Hall.
34
Special note: The Global Core course approval

process is not the same as the College credit approval process.
SCIENCE

What is required? Three courses

May I test or place out? Students may not test out of the
requirement. It is possible for
transfer students to be granted
partial Core course approval for
courses in the natural sciences,
mathematics, computer science,
and statistics at their prior institution. You must complete at least
one of the courses for the requirement at Columbia. Please note that
social science courses are not approved for the science requirement,
although anthropology courses that
cover biological foundations of
the discipline may be considered.
Likewise, psychology courses that
cover biological foundations of the
discipline may be considered, but
not those that focus on social or
abnormal psychology. Petitions are
reviewed by the faculty Subcommittee on Science Instruction.

Special notes: The science requirement may not

be fulfilled using only quantitative
(computer science, mathematics,
and statistics) courses. After matriculating at Columbia, students
may not use Barnard College courses to fulfill the science requirement
unless otherwise noted.
What is required? Satisfactory completion of the

fourth semester of a foreign language (typically Intermediate Level
II) or demonstrated equivalent
knowledge. The requirement may
also be fulfilled by the successful completion of an advancedlevel foreign language or literature
course that requires 1202 or the
equivalent as a prerequisite.
When? It is recommended that you either
begin or continue a language during the first year.
May I test or place out? Yes. Exemption or placement level

can be determined by AP scores,
SAT II scores, or departmental
placement tests. Consult your adviser and see Appendix A for more
information.

Special notes: If you are continuing your studies

in a language, you must take a
departmental placement exam to
determine your appropriate course
level. Placement exams for many
languages will be given during
New Student Orientation. If your
native language is not English and
the language of instruction in your
secondary school was in your native
language, you are not required to
take an additional foreign language
or a placement test.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION

What is required? Two courses and a swim test
requirement. However, transfer
students may receive exemption
from one of the two physical education requirements with departmental approval if transfer credit
for approved physical education
courses is awarded on a students
TCE. In addition, students may
receive physical education credit
for participating in intercollegiate
athletics. Please speak with your
adviser for more details.
HONORS
Transfer students are eligible for honors at Columbia College.

Students do not apply for College honors (cum laude, magna
cum laude, summa cum laude) or Phi Beta Kappa. The faculty
Committee on Honors, Awards, and Prizes reviews students
files during their final semester and analyzes their performance,
taking into account the breadth, depth, and rigor of students
academic programs in addition to the grades they received.
Departmental honors are awarded by each department. Some
departments in the College require a thesis or research project
as well as a specific GPA in order to be eligible for departmental
honors. Students should consult with their departmental advisers.
FOREIGN LANGUAGE
Please review the CC section in this guide for information on

the following:
Study Abroad (p. 9)
Fellowships (p. 12)
Preparation for Future Professional Study (p. 12)
Medical School
Law School
Business School
New York State Teaching Certification
Academic Resources and Guides for Students (p. 13)
Bulletins
SSOL
Departmental Resources

Faculty and TA Office Hours

Help Rooms

Writing Center
Tutoring (p. 14)
Columbia University Libraries (p. 14)
Bookstore (p. 14)
SEAS: SELECTING YOUR CLASSES

Consult your adviser for information on course approvals
for first-year/sophomore and nontechnical requirements. We
recommend that you take any outstanding required courses as
soon as possible. Course approval for major requirements can
be given only by faculty and can be reviewed after your arrival
on campus. All SEAS students must complete the following
requirements:
Calculus (proficiency through Calculus III or IV) and additional math courses as determined by major selection
General chemistry (minimum one semester)
Physics (minimum two semesters)
35
Laboratory requirement (minimum one semester)

Computer science (ENGI 1006, COMS 1004, or COMS
1005: minimum one semester)
PHYSICS

What is required? At least two semesters of introductory physics; some majors may
require one or more additional
course.
When? Fall of the incoming year if course

approval is not granted.
The Art of Engineering (ENGI 1102)

University Writing (ENGL 1010) (one semester unless
granted course approval, as determined by petition and
portfolio review)
Principles of Economics (ECON 1105)
Other nontechnical coursework (27 point minimum, including University Writing, Principles of Economics, Art or
Music Humanities, and one of the humanities sequences:
Contemporary Civilization, Literature Humanities, or
two courses from the approved Global Core list)
Physical education (two semesters)
Technical Requirements
Please review the SEAS section in this guide for more information on the following first-year/sophomore requirements, available courses/tracks, and appropriate placement.
May I test or place out? You should discuss with your

adviser partial or full physics course approval based on
equivalent courses from your prior
institution.
LAB

What is required? One semester of chemistry and/or

physics laboratory work; selection
will depend upon major
When? As soon as possible.

adviser lab course approval based
on an equivalent course from your
prior institution.
CALCULUS

What is required? All SEAS students are required to

take calculus. Proficiency through
Calculus IV is required for many
SEAS majors.

adviser partial or full math course
approval based on equivalent
courses from your prior institution.
CHEMISTRY
What is required? One semester of a programming

course (ENGI E1006, COMS 1004,
or COMS 1005)
When? As soon as possible.
May I test or place out? You should discuss computer science course approval based on an
equivalent course from your prior
institution with your adviser.
THE ART OF ENGINEERING
What is required? At least one semester of chemistry

(possibly two, depending on your
declared major)


adviser partial or full chemistry
course approval based on equivalent courses from your prior
institution.
36
COMPUTER SCIENCE
What is required? One semester of ENGI 1102: The

Art of Engineering
When? Must be taken in the first year
at Columbia.
May I test or place out? Students entering as juniors are

exempt from this requirement.
Sophomore transfers should
consult with your adviser about
approval based on an equivalent
course from your prior institution.
What is required? 27 points of nontechnical

coursework; 1618 of these points
are mandated by SEAS, and 911
points are elective
May I test or place out? Students may not test out, but it
is possible for AP scores or approved courses taken at your prior
institution to be applied toward the
27-point nontechnical requirement.
You should discuss course approvals with your adviser.
UNIVERSIT Y WRITING

What is required? ENGL 1010: University Writing
When? Entering fall or spring, if course

approval not granted.
May I test or place out? Students may petition to receive

exemption from the University
Writing requirement by submitting
a portfolio consisting of three
essays written for a course taken at
their prior institution. The essays
may be sent as graded or ungraded
papers to the Berick Center for
Student Advising.
PRINCIPLES OF ECONOMICS

What is required?
ECON 1105: Principles of Economics
When? As soon as possible, if course

adviser an exemption based on
the Economics AP/IB or approved
course(s) taken at your prior institution.

Special note: Introductory economics courses

taken outside of Columbia must
cover both microeconomics and
macroeconomics.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION

requirement. However, transfer
students may receive exemption
from one of the two physical education requirements with departmental approval if transfer credit
for approved physical education
courses is awarded on a students
TCE. In addition, students may
receive physical education credit
for participating in intercollegiate
athletics. Please speak with your
adviser for more details.
NONTECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS
HONORS
Transfer students are eligible for honors at SEAS. Students

do not apply for Latin honors (cum laude, magna cum laude,
summa cum laude), which are awarded as follows: no more than
5 percent summa cum laude, 10 percent magna cum laude, and
10 percent cum laude.
Please review the SEAS section in this guide for information on
the following:
Study Abroad (p. 22)
Fellowships (p. 22)
Preparation for Future Professional Study (p. 24)
Medical School
Law School
Business School
New York State Teaching Certification
Academic Resources and Guides for Students (p. 25)
Bulletins
SSOL
Departmental Resources

Faculty and TA Office Hours

Help Rooms

Writing Center
Tutoring (p. 25)
Columbia University Libraries (p. 26)
Bookstore (p. 26)
37
Combined Plan Students
COMBINED PLAN STUDENTS
COMBINED PLAN TRANSFER CREDIT EVALUATION
This section provides information regarding the Combined Plan

transfer credit process. You will have already received a letter
outlining your academic status and any first- and second-year
requirements you need to complete. Please meet with your
departmental faculty adviser during New Student Orientation to
plan your course sequence for your major.
The Combined Plan Transfer Credit Evaluation reviews courses

taken at prior institution(s). Only credit-bearing courses with a B or
better are eligible for transfer or exemption credit. It is important to
note that the Berick Center for Student Advising reviews only
first- and second-year foundation requirements. The relevant
academic department advises students in their major, as well as
granting any engineering-specific exemptions.
Listed below are the requirements for the first two years of study
in SEAS, as laid out in the articulation agreements with Combined Plan schools.
Requirements in the first two years are:
27 points of nontechnical work, including a writingintensive course and one course in economics
Computer science
Calculus through Calculus IV
Additional math*
Chemistry
Physics
Lab (physics and/or chemistry)
Other technical electives required by the department
Combined Plan students are automatically exempt from the first-year/
sophomore professional course except for electrical engineering majors, who are
required to take the equivalent of ELEN 1201: Introduction to Electrical Engineering.
*Check with your department for additional math requirements.
To view your major program requirements for the third

and fourth years, please refer to the SEAS Bulletin. All
students are advised that the Combined Plan Program must
be completed within a two-year period. Additional time is
not permitted. It is your responsibility to clear all remaining requirements for your B.A. with your home institution.
Students must meet the residency requirement of 60 credits
in four consecutive semesters (not including summer) at
Columbia to graduate.
EXPLANATION OF YOUR CREDIT AND

CLEARANCE EVALUATION LETTER
Your academic credential form from the Berick Center for

Student Advising outlines four areas: major, required coursework
in progress, first-year/sophomore foundational requirements still
to complete, and notes.
Major: It is not possible to accommodate a change of program
after your arrival at Columbia.
Required coursework in progress: If you are currently taking a
course that is required for the Combined Plan Program, it will be
noted as in progress on the clearance form. When we receive
your official transcript with a grade of B or better, in progress
courses will be counted toward your degree requirements.
First-year/sophomore requirements still to complete: Any
missing requirements from the first two years of foundational
courses will be noted. In some cases, these requirements can
be completed the summer before matriculation at SEAS,
as subsequent classes will build on the material covered in
these courses.
Notes: This area provides suggestions and clarification for
deficiencies noted or for classes that may count toward the
major. In some cases, more information is needed to evaluate a course. We may also include information about course
equivalencies for engineering-specific courses, which must be
evaluated by the department.
In most cases, students receive 68 advanced standing credits, regardless
of how many were already earned at their home institutions. A grade
of B or better must be earned in order to receive credit.
38
Combined Plan Transfer Credit Evaluation
REQUESTING ADDITIONAL EXEMPTIONS
You will work with your adviser in the Berick Center for
Student Advising to request exemptions for the first two years
requirements. You will work with your major department
adviser to request exemptions for the major requirements. If
syllabi are needed for further evaluation, you will be notified in
the notes section of your credit and clearance evaluation letter.
It is strongly suggested that you bring to Columbia a folder that
includes a course description and syllabus for each class, especially those courses for which you may request exemption by the
department. It will make the process much smoother when you
meet with your major adviser.
DEPARTMENT CONTACTS FOR COMBINED
PLAN STUDENTS
Applied Mathematics: Prof. Qiang Du, 212-854-8139,

qd2125@columbia.edu
Applied Physics: Prof. Nanfang Yu, 212-854-2196,
ny2214@columbia.edu
Biomedical Engineering: Prof. Clark Hung, 212-854-6542,
cth6@columbia.edu
Chemical Engineering: Prof. Daniel Esposito, 212-854-2648,
de2300@columbia.edu; Prof. Scott Banta, 212-854-7531,
sbanta@cheme.columbia.edu; Prof. Christopher Durning,
212-851-8161, cjd2@columbia.edu
Civil Engineering and Engineering Mechanics: Prof. Shiho
Kawashima, 212-854-3143, s-kawashima@columbia.edu
Computer Engineering: Prof. Charles Zukowski, 212-854-2073,
caz@columbia.edu
Computer Science: Prof. Stephen Edwards,
212-939-7019, sedwards@cs.columbia.edu; Kathryn Angeles,
advising@cs.columbia.edu
Earth and Environmental Engineering: Prof. Xi Chen,
212-854-3787, xichen@columbia.edu
Electrical Engineering: Prof. John Kymissis, 347-850-0235,
ik2174@columbia.edu
Industrial Engineering and Operations Research: Carmen Ng,
212-854-4351, carmen@columbia.edu; Dr. Jenny Mak, 212-8540757, jenny@columbia.edu
Materials Science: Prof. Katy Barmak, 212-854-8267,
katayun.barmak@columbia.edu
Mechanical Engineering: Mel Francis, 212-854-3874,
mef2@columbia.edu
39
Academic Integrity
Academic Integrity
Academic Integrity
Violations of academic integrity include but are not limited to:

Academic integrity defines a university and serves as a cornerstone of the community. At Columbia, students participate
in an academic enterprise that honors intellectual work and
respects its origins. It is important to the learning process to be
able to synthesize information and produce original work. A Columbia education emphasizes not only the students mastery of
intellectual material within a discipline but also the development
of the individuals moral character and personal ethics. Columbia
requires that students take full responsibility for their actions.
Compromising academic integrity not only jeopardizes a students
academic, professional, and social development; it violates the
standards of our community. As a Columbia student, you are
responsible for making informed choices with regard to academic
integrity both inside and outside the classroom.
HONOR CODE
The Student Councils of Columbia College and SEAS, on
behalf of their respective student bodies, have resolved that
maintaining academic integrity is the preserve of all members of
our intellectual community.
As a consequence, all Columbia College and SEAS students
make the following pledge:
We, the undergraduate students of Columbia University, hereby
pledge to value the integrity of our ideas and the ideas of others by
honestly presenting our work, respecting authorship, and striving not simply for answers but for understanding in the pursuit
of our common scholastic goals. In this way, we seek to build an
academic community governed by our collective efforts, diligence,
and Code of Honor.
In addition, all Columbia College and SEAS students are committed to the following honor code:
I affirm that I will not plagiarize, use unauthorized materials, or
give or receive illegitimate help on assignments, papers, or examinations. I will also uphold equity and honesty in the evaluation of my
work and the work of others. I do so to sustain a community built
around this Code of Honor.
40
VIOLATIONS
Plagiarism
Self-plagiarism (submitting work for one course that has
been already used for another course)
Cheating on examinations or tests
Collaborating on assignments without the instructors
permission
Receiving unauthorized assistance on an assignment
Copying computer programs
Falsification, forgery, or misrepresentation of information
in coursework, lab work, or on any application, petition, or documents submitted to the College/SEAS or a
University official
Fabrication of credentials in materials submitted to the
University for administrative or academic review
Facilitating academic dishonesty (selling of or providing
notes, exams, papers, etc.)
Unauthorized circulation or sharing of past or present
course materials
Lying to a faculty member, dean, adviser, or University officer
Obtaining advance knowledge of exams or other assignments without permission
Violating specified testing conditions
Failing to safeguard ones own work
PLAGIARISM
Plagiarism is the copying, paraphrasing, or employing of the

words and/or ideas of others without proper citation. This is
one of the most prevalent forms of academic dishonesty and
the one students commonly have the most difficulty understanding. If you are uncertain how to cite properly from
any source, check with course instructors, University librarians, and Writing Center staff before submitting your work.
Ignorance of proper citation methods does not absolve you of
responsibility.
Campus Resources
A student charged with a violation of academic integrity is

notified and provided the opportunity to respond through the
Deans Discipline process. If the student is found responsible for
a violation, sanctions will be issued upon consideration of the
specifics of the case, institutional precedent, disciplinary history,
aggravating circumstances, and community impact. A student
found responsible for an academic integrity violation can expect
to receive a minimum sanction of disciplinary probation and
may be suspended or expelled from the University.
Additionally, students found responsible for violations of
academic integrity may be required to report such offenses
on future applications to graduate and professional schools.
Such offenses will also be noted on recommendations for
Latin honors and Phi Beta Kappa. The parents or guardians of
dependent students may be notified when a student is no longer
in good disciplinary standing. The University reserves the right
to indicate disciplinary suspension or expulsion on a students
academic transcript.
STRATEGIES FOR MAINTAINING

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY
Columbia classes are challenging, and frequently the
workload and grading standards greatly exceed students
high school experiences. When students, pressed for time,
unprepared for an assignment or exam, or anxious about the
need to earn a high grade, choose to cheat, it compromises
the integrity of our academic community, shows disrespect to
instructors and classmates, and deprives those students of the
opportunity to learn.
Students should be prepared and consider the following when
approaching their coursework:
Understand instructors criteria for academic integrity and
their policies on citation and group collaboration.
Clarify any questions or concerns about assignments with
instructors as early as possible.
Develop a timeline for drafts and final revision of assignments and begin preparation in advance.
Always acknowledge other peoples opinions and theories
by citing their words and indicating sources.
Do not collaborate on assignments unless specifically
permitted by the instructor.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, burdened, or pressured,

utilize campus resources such as the Berick Center for Student Advising, and Counseling and Psychological Services.
Campus Resources
Campus Resources
DEANS DISCIPLINE
The following is a compilation of programs, resources, and

services that will help you achieve your goals both in and outside
the classroom. For more information, please consult the listed
web addresses or talk with your adviser.

cc-seas.columbia.edu/csa
The Berick Center for Student Advising (CSA) provides an
integrated advising experience for all students in Columbia
College and SEAS. CSA brings together, under one roof, general
academic advising, Academic Success Programs, the Columbia
Undergraduate Scholars Program, and Preprofessional Advising. Students are assigned an adviser who works with them
throughout their time at Columbia. Advisers help plan academic programs each semester, answer questions about degree
and Core requirements (for CC) and first-year/sophomore and
nontechnical requirements (for SEAS), and help address any
other questions or concerns. Advisers work collaboratively with
faculty and other campus offices and resources to help engender
student success.
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT LIFE

cc-seas.columbia.edu/studentlife
Undergraduate Student Life (USL) is comprised of Multicultural Affairs, Residential Life, and Student Engagement. Collectively, these offices foster a vibrant community by promoting
inclusivity, encouraging responsibility, and creating and supporting opportunities for students to develop connections within
and beyond Columbias campus. Throughout the year, USL
supports community events; provides leadership, cultural, and
civic engagement programs and opportunities; offers diversity
education and training; supports identity development and
exploration; and advises students, student organizations, and
residential communities.
Campus Resources
41
6 6
Student Conduct and Community Standards
Campus Resources
42
MULTICULTURAL AFFAIRS
cc-seas.columbia.edu/oma
The Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA) promotes an inclusive campus community by acting as an educational resource
and providing a supportive environment for intercultural communication and intergroup dialogue. OMA facilitates student
engagement with many facets of diversity, including race and
ethnicity, socioeconomic status, country of origin, and sexual
orientation and gender identity/expression. Offering programs
in diversity education, social justice, leadership development,
and mentoring, OMA also advises cultural and identity-based
student organizations. In addition to first-generation students,
LGBTQ students, and students of color, OMA works with
international students and families through all phases of the
student experience.
Engagement, including the New Student Orientation Program,

Urban NY, Alternative Break, and more.
STUDENT CONDUCT AND COMMUNITY STANDARDS

studentconduct.columbia.edu
Student Conduct and Community Standards (SCCS) works
closely with many other Columbia University offices to ensure
that your community is safe, honest, and responsible. One of
the ways SCCS meets this goal is by implementing the Deans
Discipline process when a student is alleged to have violated a
Columbia policy.
RESIDENTIAL LIFE
SEXUAL RESPECT
cc-seas.columbia.edu/reslife
sexualrespect.columbia.edu
Residential Life comprises a team of students, faculty, and professional staff who strive to enhance the quality of the residential
experience by cultivating an atmosphere conducive to educational pursuits and developing community among the student
body. This team includes resident advisers (RAs), undergraduate
students who will live in the dormitories and serve as peer mentors and educators. Residential Life helps facilitate connections
between students and their hallmates, provides programming
opportunities, and supports shared community standards.
Residential Life staff provide guidance through any challenges
students may experience adjusting to residential living at Columbia. Fraternity and Sorority Life is also a vibrant part of the
residential experience and Columbia community.
Columbia University, Barnard College, and Teachers College

are committed to fostering an environment that is free from
gender-based discrimination and harassment, including sexual
assault and all other forms of gender-based misconduct. The
University recognizes its responsibility to increase awareness
of such misconduct, prevent its occurrence, support students
who experienced gender-based misconduct, and deal fairly and
firmly with students who violate University policy. In addressing issues of gender-based misconduct, all members of the
University must come together to respect and work together in
a manner consistent with our deeply held academic and community values.
STUDENT ENGAGEMENT
CENTER FOR CAREER EDUCATION
cc-seas.columbia.edu/engagement
cce.columbia.edu
Student Engagement is committed to building a strong sense of

campus community by providing programming that enhances
leadership skills, fosters community engagement, and encourages the exploration of the variety of cocurricular opportunities available to students at Columbia. Student Engagement
staff advise the CC and SEAS class councils, as well as a broad
range of student organizations recognized by the three student
governing boards, and provide support for a host of community
traditions and celebrations. Students can find opportunities for
community building, social interaction, and participation in
campus life through programs and events supported by Student
The Center for Career Education (CCE) works with undergraduate students to help them define career goals and gain meaningful work experiences through a wide variety of programs and
services. These include individual career counseling, workshops,
speaker events, and online resources to help with career planning and all phases of securing a job, including applications,
interviewing, networking, and negotiations. CCE maintains
LionSHARE, an internship/job database that allows students
to set up a job agent and be notified daily of internship and
full-time employment opportunities. CCE runs a domestic and
international internship program, and it hosts career fairs, in-
Campus Resources
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS AND

SCHOLARS OFFICE
columbia.edu/cu/isso
212-854-3587
The International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) is
the only University office authorized to oversee students
immigration status. The ISSO offers full advisory and documentation services for international students and serves as
a source of comprehensive and up-to-date information on
Department of Homeland Security and Department of State
regulations that affect international students throughout their
program of study at Columbia. The ISSO offers information
sessions throughout the academic year on employment and
provides free access to online tax-preparation software to
generate any nonresident federal tax forms or tax returns that
may be required. The ISSO advisory staff may be contacted
in person during office hours on a walk-in basis, by email, or
by telephone.
STUDENT SERVICES
Overview of Student and Administrative Services
sas.columbia.edu
Computing Support
columbia.edu/cu/cuit
Housing and Dining
housing.columbia.edu
dining.columbia.edu
Mail Services
mailservices.columbia.edu
Registrar
registrar.columbia.edu
Student Financial Services

sfs.columbia.edu
Student Financial Services (SFS) is responsible for monitoring your student account. The student account is a record of
the charges and credits that occur during your registration at
Columbia. Charges may include tuition, room, meals, health
services, and other fees. Credits may include financial aid, personal payments, and non-University loans.
Columbia Health
dustry showcases, and employer site visits regularly throughout

the academic year. CCE also counsels students on their choice
of major as it pertains to their future professional life, as well as
the decision to pursue graduate school, and works to connect
current students with alumni.
Student Account Questions: 212-854-4400
COLUMBIA HEALTH
health.columbia.edu
Columbia Health offers a comprehensive range of routine
medical care, self-care options, individual and group counseling,
health education, nutritional support, and extensive outreach
on issues pertinent to your well-being. Most services are offered
without an additional charge because you have paid the Columbia Health Fee, which is mandatory for all full-time students
and students living in University housing.
HEALTH INSURANCE AND IMMUNIZATIONS
health.columbia.edu/insurance
health.columbia.edu/immunization
All students are required to provide documentation of immunization against measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) and to make
an informed decision online regarding meningitis. In addition,
by University mandate, all full-time students are required to have
medical insurance coverage for both inpatient and outpatient medical and psychological care, emergency services, and all other services
not available on campus through Medical Services, such as lab tests,
x-rays, and prescriptions. For this coverage, you may choose either
to enroll in the plan offered by Columbia or to waive the Columbia
plan and carry a comparable alternate insurance plan.
MEDICAL SERVICES
health.columbia.edu/medical-services
Medical Services (MS) offers care for illness or injury, wellness programs, immunizations, allergy shots, and a travel
medicine program. MS also provides well-woman care,
contraception, pregnancy and sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing, integrative medicine services, and referral
services.
Campus Resources
43
Columbia Health
Campus Resources
ALICE! HEALTH PROMOTION

COUNSELING AND PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES
health.columbia.edu/services/cps
Appointments: 212-854-2878
Counseling and Psychological Services (CPS) offers short-term
individual counseling, referrals for longer-term therapy, studentlife support groups and workshops, medication consultations,
and emergency consultations. Located on the 8th floor of
Lerner, CPS is open Mondays through Fridays. CPS also has
drop-in offices in six undergraduate residence halls and an oncall number for after-hours.
DISABIILIT Y SERVICES
health.columbia.edu/disability-services
Disability Services (DS) facilitates access for students with all
types of disabilities by coordinating accommodations and support services, thereby cultivating a campus culture that is sensitive and responsive to the needs of students with disabilities.
DS works with many students with various types of disabilities
including, but not limited to, physical, hearing, visual, learning,
and psychological as well as chronic medical conditions.
Reasonable accommodations are adjustments to policies,
practices, and programs that facilitate access to Columbias
academic programs, campus resources, and activities. Examples include exam accommodations, services such as notetaking, sign language interpreters, assistive technology, and
coordination of accessible housing needs. Accommodation
plans and services are determined on a case-by-case basis, and
students seeking them are required to register with DS. This
registration does not occur automatically upon enrollment
at Columbia University. Detailed information regarding the
registration process is available on the DS website or upon
request by contacting DS at disability@columbia.edu.
Students are encouraged to register with DS during the summer
prior to their arrival so that accommodations can be determined
and/or arranged in advance as needed. Please note that students
are not eligible to receive accommodations until they have duly
registered with DS.
44
health.columbia.edu/alice-health-promotion
Appointments: 212-854-5453
Alice! Health Promotion seeks to support the health and wellbeing of the student body and the University community by
connecting individuals and groups to information and resources,
cultivating healthy attitudes, promoting healthy behaviors, supporting policy, and fostering a culture that values and supports
healthall with a focus on prevention. Alice! offers a wide variety of programs and services covering an assortment of health
topics, including sleep, alcohol and other drugs, nutrition,
physical activity, relationships, sexual and reproductive health,
coping with stress, and more. Alice! staff are also available to talk
with students about their health questions and how to access
resources.
GAY HEALTH ADVOCACY PROJECT
health.columbia.edu/ghap
The Gay Health Advocacy Project (GHAP) promotes the health
and well-being of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer
(LGBTQ) people on campus. GHAPs staff and volunteers provide services concerning sexuality, sexual health, and LGBTQ
support as well as confidential HIV testing and counseling for
the entire community.
SEXUAL VIOLENCE RESPONSE & RAPE CRISIS
ANTI-VIOLENCE SUPPORT CENTER
health.columbia.edu/sexual-violence-response
212-854-HELP (4357) for 24/7/365 support
Sexual Violence Response (SVR) is a support and advocacy system for survivors and cosurvivors of violence and works as well
to promote the behaviors of positive, consensual relationships.
SVR provides direct services to survivors and cosurvivors who
may have experienced sexual, intimate-partner, or gender-based
violence, stalking, or harassment. This includes crisis intervention, information on reporting and support options, and accompanying students to hospital emergency departments, police
precincts, Public Safety, and other on- and off-campus resources.
In its prevention work, SVR offers workshops, training sessions,
and presentations on a wide range of topics related to sexual
violence.
Campus Resources
Public Safety
UNIVERSITY CHAPLAIN
ouc.columbia.edu
The Office of the University Chaplain ministers to the Columbia community while promoting interreligious understanding
and supporting individual spirituality and faith perspectives. The
University Chaplain works to promote interfaith and intercultural awareness; fosters learning through spiritual, ethical,
religious, political, and cultural exchanges; and hosts programs
on matters of justice, faith, and spirituality. The University
Chaplain is available for confidential pastoral counseling to
individuals, couples, and families in the Columbia community,
and the Office of the University Chaplain may also assist with
private ceremonies such as weddings, christenings, and memorial services. The University Chaplain oversees the work of a fellowship of over 20 Religious Life Advisers representing specific
faith traditions.
PUBLIC SAFETY
publicsafety.columbia.edu
Emergency Numbers:
From an on-campus phone: 4-5555
From an off-campus phone: 212-854-5555
The Columbia University Department of Public Safety office
is open 24 hours a day throughout the year to ensure the
safety and well-being of the University community. A number of distinctively marked emergency telephones located
throughout the campus, and a special on-campus phone
system emergency number, extension 4-5555, help ensure
rapid response to calls for assistance from any residence hall,
classroom building, or other part of the campus. The department also provides walking escorts within the Columbia University vicinity, operates an evening shuttle bus service, issues
crime alerts when necessary, engages in crime prevention, and
operates the safe haven program, which provides storefront
locations across campus where people who feel threatened
may take refuge.
Campus Resources
45
73
7
Foreign Language Requirement
Appendices
Xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Appendix A
FOREIGN LANGUAGE REQUIREMENT
The requirement may be satisfied in one of the following ways:
1. Satisfactory completion of the second term of an intermediate language sequence (1202)
2. Demonstration of an equivalent competence through the
appropriate score on an SAT II Subject Test or Advanced
Placement test
3. Demonstration of an equivalent competence through the
Colleges own placement tests
4. Successful completion of an advanced-level foreign
language or literature course that requires 1202 or the
equivalent as a prerequisite
Students whose native language is not English are not required
to take an additional foreign language or a placement test if they
have completed secondary school in their native language.
Additional information:
All language instruction courses must be taken for a
letter grade.
Students wishing to satisfy the requirement in a language
not listed below should consult with their adviser.
For some languages, equivalent courses offered at Barnard
College and the School of General Studies may be used to
satisfy the requirement.
Any student who wishes to submit a language course
taken at another institution in fulfillment of the
language requirement must pass a departmental
placement examination.
PLACEMENT POLICIES
SAT II and Advanced Placement information is given below for

Chinese, French, German, Hebrew, Italian, Latin, and Spanish.
CHINESE
A score of 5 on the Chinese Advanced Placement exam, or a

score of 780800 on the SAT II Subject Test in Chinese, satisfies
the Columbia College foreign language requirement. All students
who wish to continue their study of Chinese at Columbia must
take the departmental placement exam during Orientation.
46
FRENCH
The French Department recognizes SAT II Subject Tests and

AP Exams as outlined below. All students not submitting those
scores but continuing French must take the departmental placement exam given during Orientation or at other times arranged
through the department.
SAT II: Subject Test in French
Score
Course Placement
below 420
1101
420499
1102
500639
1201
640779
1202
780+ satisfies language requirement.
Advanced Placement Exam in French
A score of 5 on a French language or literature exam satisfies the
foreign language requirement. Upon successful completion of
a 3-point 3000-level (or higher) course in French at Columbia,
the Department of French and Romance Philology will award 3
points of AP credit, provided the grade in the course is a B or better. A score of 4 on the French language or literature exam satisfies
the foreign language requirement. No points are awarded.
GERMAN
The Department of Germanic Languages recognizes SAT II

Subject Tests and AP Exams as outlined below, but very strongly
encourages students with high school German to take the
Columbia placement exam to ensure proper placement. All students not submitting those scores but continuing German must
take a departmental placement exam during Orientation.
SAT II: Subject Test in German
Score
Course Placement
below 400
1101
400569
1102
570679
1201
680779
1202
Advanced Placement Exam in German
A score of 5 on the German language exam satisfies the foreign
language requirement. Upon successful completion of a 3-point
3000-level (or higher) course in German at Columbia, the Department will award 3 points of AP credit, provided the grade in
the course is a B or better. A score of 4 on the German language
exam satisfies the foreign language requirement. No points are
awarded.
Appendices
ITALIAN
A score of 5 on the Italian language exam satisfies the foreign language requirement. Upon successful completion of a
3-point 3000-level (or higher) course in Italian at Columbia,
the Department of Italian will award 3 points of AP credit,
provided the grade in the course is a B or better. A score of
4 on an Italian language exam satisfies the foreign language
requirement. No points are awarded. The Department of
Italian recognizes the SAT II subject test, and a score of 780
satisfies the foreign language requirement. All students who
are continuing their study of Italian must take a departmental
placement exam during Orientation.
LATIN
A score of 5 on the AP Latin exam satisfies the foreign language

requirement. In addition, 3 points of credit will be awarded upon
successful completion of a Latin class at the 3000 level or higher,
provided the grade in the course is a B or better. No credit or
placement is given for the SAT II test. All students wishing to
continue Latin in the College should take the departmental place-
ment test and/or see the program director prior to registration.

SPANISH
The Department of Latin American and Iberian Cultures recognizes SAT II Subject Tests and AP Exams as outlined below.
All students not submitting those scores but continuing Spanish
must take a departmental placement exam during Orientation.
SAT II: Subject Test in Spanish
Score
Course Placement
below 420
1101
420569
1102 or 1120*
570689
1201
690779
1202 or 1220*
*with instructor approval and if Spanish is not the first foreign
language you are learning
Foreign Language Requirement
HEBREW
Students who have achieved a score of 700+ on the SAT II Subject Test in Hebrew and/or students who have passed the Jerusalem Examination have, upon receipt of official documentation,
satisfied the foreign language requirement. Depending on their
scores, students who passed the Jerusalem Examination may also
receive credit for it. All students enrolling in Hebrew language
courses beyond Elementary Hebrew I must take a placement
test prior to registration. Tests are available at the Department of
Middle East Languages and Cultures, 401 Knox Hall. Beginners
may register for Elementary Hebrew I.
Advanced Placement Exam in Spanish

A score of 5 on the Spanish language or literature exam satisfies
the foreign language requirement. Upon successful completion of a 3-point 3300-level (or higher) course in Spanish at
Columbia, the Department of Latin American and Iberian
Cultures will award 3 points of AP credit, provided the grade in
the course is a B or better. A score of 4 on the Spanish language
or literature exam satisfies the foreign language requirement. No
points are awarded.
International Baccalaureate
A score of 5 or higher on the Higher Level Exam in Spanish
satisfies the foreign language requirement.
For information about other languages taught at Columbia, please see the complete list in the Columbia College Bulletin:
bulletin.columbia.edu/columbia-college/core-curriculum/foreign-language-requirement
Appendices
47
73
7
Faculty Contacts for Science Majors
Appendices
Xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Appendix B
Appendix C
FACULTY CONTACTS FOR SCIENCE MAJORS
COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY
20162017 ACADEMIC CALENDAR
Students considering a major in the sciences should, in their first

two years, focus on the required introductory science classes.
You should consult the Columbia College Bulletin and speak with
your adviser to plan your academic program. Students planning
to follow a premedical program should also obtain a copy of the
Premedical Handbook during Orientation.
The following professors are also available to answer the
questions of students who:
are interested in the sciences
are considering a major or concentration in one of the
following departments
have questions about courses offered in the sciences
are wondering where a degree in science can lead after
graduation
Astronomy
Prof. Frederik Paerels
September 5 Labor DayUniversity Holiday

September 6 First Day of Classes
September 16 End of Change of Program Period, Last Day to
Add a Class without Instructor Permission
October 11 Last Day to Drop a Class for Columbia College
October 20 Midterm Date
November 7 Academic HolidayNo Classes
November 8 Election DayUniversity Holiday
November 17 Last Day to Exercise Pass/D/Fail Option
November 17 Last Day to Drop a Class for SEAS
November 24 Thanksgiving DayUniversity Holiday
November 25 University Holiday
December 12 Last Day of Classes
December 1623 Final Exams
frits@astro.columbia.edu
Biology
Prof. Deborah Mowshowitz dbm2@columbia.edu
Chemistry
Dr. Vesna Gasperov vg2231@columbia.edu
Computer Science
Dr. Jae Woo Lee jae@cs.columbia.edu
Earth and Environmental Sciences
Prof. Sidney Hemming sidney@ldeo.columbia.edu
Prof. Hugh Ducklow hducklow@ldeo.columbia.edu
Ecology, Evolution, and Environmental Biology
Dr. Matthew Palmer (Environmental Biology)
mp2434@columbia.edu
Dr. Jill Shapiro (Evolutionary Biology of the
Human Species) jss19@columbia.edu
Mathematics
Prof. Chiu-Chu (Melissa) Liu
ccliu@math.columbia.edu
Physics
Dr. Jeremy Dodd dodd@nevis.columbia.edu
48
FALL TERM 2016
SPRING TERM 2017
January 17 First Day of Classes

January 27 End of Change of Program Period, Last Day to
Add a Class without Instructor Permission
February 21 Last Day to Drop a Class for Columbia College
March 6 Midterm Date
March 1317 Spring Break
March 23 Last Day to Exercise Pass/D/Fail Option
March 23 Last Day to Drop a Class for SEAS
May 1 Last Day of Classes
May 512 Final Exams
May 17 Commencement
IMPORTANT NOTES:
1. Dates are subject to change. See the 20162017 CC or
SEAS Bulletin for current Academic Calendar.
2. Vacation travelStudents should not make travel plans
until they know their final exam schedule. Final exams
will not be rescheduled for vacation travel purposes.
3. OrientationBecause of its paramount importance
to the academic and social well-being and success of
first-year students, attendance during New Student
Orientation is mandatory.
Appendices
DISABILITY SERVICES
John Jay Hall, 3rd Floor

212-854-5453
health.columbia.edu/services/alice
Wien Hall, 1st Floor

212-854-2388
health.columbia.edu/services/ods
ATHLETIC AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES
FELLOWSHIPS OFFICE
Dodge Physical Fitness Center

212-854-2548
gocolumbialions.com
606 Kent Hall

212-854-1161
BOOKSTORE
FINANCIAL AID AND EDUCATIONAL FINANCING
Lerner Hall
212-854-4131
618 Lerner Hall

212-854-3711
cc-seas.financialaid.columbia.edu
CENTER FOR CAREER EDUCATION
FRATERNITY AND SORORITY LIFE
East Campus, Lower Level

212-854-5609
cce.columbia.edu
403 Lerner Hall

212-854-6378
cc-seas.columbia.edu/csa
csa@columbia.edu
Academic Success Programs
cc-seas.columbia.edu/asp
Preprofessional Advising
Scholars Program
cc-seas.columbia.edu/scholars
COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (CUIT)
212-854-1919
columbia.edu/cuit
COUNSELING AND PSYCHOLOGICAL
SERVICES
Lerner Hall, 8th Floor

212-854-2878
health.columbia.edu/services/cps
DEAN OF COLUMBIA COLLEGE
208 Hamilton Hall

212-854-2441
college.columbia.edu
DEAN OF COLUMBIA ENGINEERING
515 Lerner Hall

212-854-6805
columbiagreeks.info
GRADUATION ZONE
cc-seas.columbia.edu/gradzone
HEALTH SERVICES
212-854-2284
health.columbia.edu
HOUSING SERVICES
John Jay Hall, 3rd and 4th Floors

212-854-7426
After hours: 212-854-9797
health.columbia.edu/medical-services
MULTICULTURAL AFFAIRS
510 Lerner Hall

212-854-0720
cc-seas.columbia.edu/oma
NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION PROGRAM
(NSOP)
505 Lerner Hall

212-854-3611
columbia.edu/cu/orientation
PARENT AND FAMILY PROGRAMS
609 Lerner Hall

212-854-2446
cc-seas.columbia.edu/parents
PUBLIC SAFETY
111 Low Library

212-854-2797
Emergency: 212-854-5555
columbia.edu/cu/publicsafety
118 Hartley Hall

212-854-2779
housingservices.columbia.edu
REGISTRAR
INSURANCE AND IMMUNIZATION

COMPLIANCE
515 Lerner Hall

212-854-6805
cc-seas.columbia.edu/reslife
John Jay Hall, 3rd Floor

Insurance Office: 212-854-3286
Immunization Compliance Office:
212-854-7210
INTERCULTURAL RESOURCE CENTER
552 West 114th Street

212-854-0720
cc-seas.columbia.edu/multicultural/
aboutus/irc.php
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS AND
SCHOLARS OFFICE
524 Riverside Drive, 1st Floor

212-854-3587
columbia.edu/cu/isso
STUDENT CONDUCT AND COMMUNITY

STANDARDS
510 S. W. Mudd
212-854-2993
engineering.columbia.edu
800 Watson Hall

212-854-6872
studentconduct.columbia.edu
DINING SERVICES
LIBRARY SERVICES
118 Hartley Hall

212-854-4076
columbia.edu/cu/dining
MEDICAL SERVICES
Butler Library
212-854-7309
Directory
ALICE! CUS HEALTH PROMOTION PROGRAM
See Student Service Center.

RESIDENTIAL PROGRAMS
STUDENT ENGAGEMENT
515 Lerner Hall

212-854-3611
cc-seas.columbia.edu/engagement
STUDENT SERVICE CENTER
205 Kent Hall

212-854-4400
Financial Services: columbia.edu/cu/sfs
Registrar: registrar.columbia.edu
STUDY ABROAD
606 Kent Hall

212-854-2559
ogp.columbia.edu
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT LIFE
510515 Lerner Hall

212-854-3612
cc-seas.columbia.edu/studentlife
UNIVERSITY CHAPLAIN
Earl Hall Center

212-854-6242
ouc.columbia.edu
Appendices
49

Academic Planning Guide 2016

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3

WELCOME FROM THE INTERIM

1. JAMES H. AND CHRISTINE

THE ADVISING PARTNERSHIP

The Core Curriculum

Majors and Concentrations

James H. and Christine Turk Berick

Transfer Credit Evaluations

Majors and Minors

Columbia College: The Core

SEAS: Selecting Your Classes

Preparation for Future

Combined Plan Students

Frequently Asked Questions

Preparation for Future

Frequently Asked Questions

Academic Resources and

Academic Resources and

Foreign Language Requirement 44

Faculty Contacts for

Planning Guide 20162017

Andrew Plaa, PhD

James H. and Christine Turk Berick Center for Student Advising

JAMES H. AND CHRISTINE TURK BERICK

THE ADVISING PARTNERSHIP

THE CORE CURRICULUM

Science (SCNC 1000: Frontiers of Science plus two

Can I test out? No.

Special notes: All first-year students must be

Planning Guide 20162017

What is required? ENGL 1010: University Writing

You may choose to acquire a new language or continue to study

The Core Curriculum

to consider particular conceptions of what it means to be

Can I test out? No.

University Writing is designed to help undergraduates develop the

What is required? Proficiency at the intermediate

Can I test out? Yes. Exemption or placement level

What is required? The science Core course, SCNC

Can I test out? No.

Special notes: Students may not use Barnard

The science requirement has two components, Frontiers of

The Core Curriculum

When? By the end of your junior year.

Students convene in small seminars for analysis and discussion

When? By the end of your junior year.

Can I test out? No.

Students meet in small seminars, twice a week, for intensive

Planning Guide 20162017

Can I test out? Yes. Exemption from Music Hum may

Students gather in small seminars for analysis and discussion of

What is required? Two courses

Can I test out? No.

Special notes: The Global Core list of approved

The Global Core requirement consists of courses that examine

What is required? Two courses and a swim test

When? Before graduation.

Can I test out? No.

Special notes: Students unable to complete the

The physical education component of the Core emphasizes the

MAJORS AND CONCENTRATIONS

information on the requirements for a particular major,

Students who are undecided should talk to their advising dean

If you are interested in continuing with a language you have

1. JAMES H. AND CHRISTINE

Faculty Contacts for

Science (SCNC 1000: Frontiers of Science plus two

Special notes: All first-year students must be

What is required? Proficiency at the intermediate

Can I test out? Yes. Exemption or placement level

What is required? The science Core course, SCNC

Special notes: Students may not use Barnard

When? By the end of your junior year.

When? By the end of your junior year.

Can I test out? No.

Can I test out? Yes. Exemption from Music Hum may

Special notes: The Global Core list of approved

Special notes: Students unable to complete the

Q. I am interested in majoring in a science. What courses

A. You should take chemistry, chemistry lab, and possibly calculus in

What is required? Completion of Calculus IIII or IV,

When? All students must take calculus at

Can I test out? No. However, previous background

When? First year, fall and spring.

What is required? At least one semester of chemistry

What is required? One semester of ENGI 1102: The

What is required? One semester of a computer

What is required? One semester of chemistry and/or